Like all mental illnesses, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) contains myths and disbelief. But, it is more common for people suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder to be under these myths. The justification and glorification of these myths are done through movies and TV series. Hence, the myths around Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder are much more prevalent.
Thus, below are few of the myths and the realities around PTSD:
Myth:
It is a very common myth that Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder only happens after a dangerous event. People believe that Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder can only happen after someone has faced an event directly.
Reality:
In reality, it is not necessary that the person should face direct trauma. Anyone can have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder even if they see someone else going through a traumatic experience. Thus, if a family member or a loved one is going through an event, just by looking at it, a person can acquire Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Also, it can happen right after the death of a loved one.
Myth:
People tend to say that time will heal the wounds. They will constantly say to the person suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder that just give it time.
Reality:
It takes years to overcome Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, with professional help. An adult can still be affected by childhood trauma years after the event has passed. Giving it time will not heal the wound. Thus, to cure Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder it is important to seek professional help.
Myth:
One of the most prevalent and glorified myth is, that only soldiers get Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Even in movies and TV shows it is shown that soldiers are the only one suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Thus, it has become a common belief among people.
Reality:
It is true that soldiers and war veterans are statistically the most numbers of people suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. But, it is not necessary that only they can have Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. It can affect anyone who has experienced or seen a traumatic event.
Myth:
People always assume that a person suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is very weak and doesn’t have the ability to get over it. This assumption is not only prevalent for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder but all the mental health illnesses. Thus, people start judging the person for their illness.
Reality:
The hard-hitting reality is, that the person who is suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is not weak but, is actually suffering from a mental illness. It is not in their hand to come out of it just like that. It takes proper treatment for a person to actually come out of it. This particular judgemental behaviour makes it difficult for the person to overcome any illness.
It’s important that we should avoid these myths, and actually listen to the person empathetically. It takes a lot of courage to accept about this illness. Judging them doesn’t actually help the person. Hence, it is important to make the first step and give out a helping hand.
Thus, if you or someone you know is suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, then please seek professional help immediately.
