PTSD doesn’t have just one face, it has millions. During any given year, there are about
eight million adults who have PTSD, which is why for PTSD Awareness Day this year, we’re sharing just some of those many faces and the stories behind them. From grandmothers to soldiers, both women and men, the PatientsLikeMe PTSD community is made up of people from all backgrounds – connecting through their shared experiences. Read their stories and log in to
connect with others in the forum.
Survivinglife: “I felt like a million pounds had been lifted from my shoulders. The course of my life finally made sense. My lack of being able to trust people, my lack of friendships, the ‘moodiness,’ that are really reactions to triggers that I know, and some that I am continuing to figure out. Why I always felt different, like I didn't fit in, why I still feel that way today.”
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DSwartz: “Always know that you are NOT ALONE... PTSD comes from trying to be too strong for too long or on your own, with little or no support. Talking about your fears and insecurities with someone who truly listens and does not judge you makes a huge difference. You can learn to accept your fears, work through them and enjoy life again.”
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ChrisBC: “The most challenging aspect of my diagnosis is being in touch with my feelings. I would tend to block out my feelings and hide them deep inside and put on a false persona because I was scared. I still struggle with this today and have so much support helping me to make it through this.”
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SuperChick: “I still experience triggers, but am able to process the emotions using cognitive behavioral therapy skills and journaling. When I am triggered, I make sure I take care of myself through prayer, talking with my husband and therapist, and doing things that help me relax, ground me, and fully engage my mind, like playing my flute and piano.”
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Jeffperry1134: “My PTSD was early onset after returning from Desert Storm... At the time I was a 19-year-old alone in Germany away from my family struggling with this mental illness. My supervisors were able to help me hide my problems well and it was not discovered at that time. I feared being singled out for having these problems.”
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