Common Myths about PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem that some people develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening or traumatic event. PTSD onset is more likely during times of war, natural disasters and pandemics, due to increased opportunity to be exposed to life-threatening events.

According to the National Center for PTSD, about 6% of individuals in America have PTSD at some point in their life. Unfortunately, only 50% of those suffering with PTSD seek treatment, and of the people who do seek treatment, only 58% consult a licensed mental health professional.

Why don’t people seek treatment for PTSD?

In contrast to other medical conditions, people seek treatment for PTSD and other mental health concerns less than they do for a physical ailment. Some of the common myths about PTSD may provide clues as to why.

Debunking the myths about PTSD

There are many common myths about PTSD, which may cause a person to minimize or invalidate their feelings or symptoms. Let’s debunk some of these myths.

• Myth #1: Only combat/military veterans get PTSD. While veterans who have been deployed to a war zone are more likely to have PTSD than a civilian, other traumatic life events can cause PTSD. After veterans, women are 50% more likely to have PTSD than civilian men. According to the National Institute for PTSD, about 8% of women experience PTSD at some point in their lives. This likelihood is due in part to the types of traumatic events women are more likely to face, like sexual assault.
• Myth #2: Everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. While feeling upset or distressed is a common reaction, everyone reacts to trauma differently, and these feelings generally decrease with time. When symptoms do not decrease or worsen, it is time to see a mental health provider for diagnosis, treatment and support.
• Myth #3: PTSD occurs immediately following the traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD can take months or years to surface. Some people are able to use distractions, like work, hobbies, family and more to avoid or hide their feelings, sometimes for years. For some adults, PTSD becomes evident when they retire because the distractions of work or caring for a young family no longer exist.
• Myth #4: PTSD is a sign of weakness and being broken. PTSD can affect anyone. With the appropriate mental health treatment and support, PTSD can be managed. The condition does not have to be debilitating. Many people with PTSD are able to complete daily tasks, have successful careers and live an active life, while managing their triggers. In fact, learning how to manage those triggers can make the person stronger and more capable of managing the stress of daily life.

Risks of undiagnosed and untreated PTSD

Most of us have heard the tragic stories of higher suicide rates among combat veterans with PTSD. Studies show that thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts are increased in veterans and civilian adults with PTSD.

PTSD can also impact other important aspects of life, including ability to work or the quality of that work, relationships with family and friends and even a person’s physical health. According to a study published on the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website, the following physical health conditions have been associated with PTSD and trauma:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Diabetes
• Chronic pain
• Metabolic syndrome
• Cancer

Help is available

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of PTSD or other mental health conditions, seek the help of a licensed behavioral health professional. If you are having suicidal thoughts, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week; dial 988.