PTSD is an insidious disorder. It is often associated with only those who were in war zones. People who have survived domestic violence also experience PTSD. It is often a reflexive reaction to something said or done which takes one back to a very unpleasant experience. The reaction is an in the moment, uncontrollable, reaction.
Sadly, those who don’t understand make those of us who are coping and trying to deal with PTSD feel ashamed and unworthy. Those who have not had severe trauma in their lives will never understand. All the survivors of domestic violence ask is that you have some compassion. It is not fun to live a life where you fear bodily harm and/or are subject to verbal and psychological abuse . Those of us who survive try to deal with PTSD as best we can. Some of us do a better job than others. Yet, no matter how successful we are or how hard we try to understand the triggers, there will be moments where we are unsuccessful.
Please try to be kind. Understand it does not mean people have an anger issue. Yes, anger is a component but it does not define the personality of those who are suffering from this disorder. Listen to those of us who have the courage to speak up about our PTSD. Being critical only traumatizes again. Please be kind, helpful, and most of all understanding. It is hard to make PTSD completely go away but many of us are working very hard to control our emotions and not have reflexive responses to the trigger. Please be part of the solution, not add to the problem.
Rantings Of A Baby Boomer 