Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, better known as PTSD, has historically been associated with military combat-related incidents. But PTSD can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender or experience. Events that may lead to PTSD include, but are not limited to, violent personal assaults, natural or human-caused disasters, accidents, combat, and other forms of violence. Sixty percent of men and 50% of women will experience at least one traumatic event in their lives. Take a minute to read Jared’s experience with PTSD:
Jared was a 36-year old married veteran who returned from Afghanistan, having served as an officer. He went to the VA outpatient mental health clinic complaining of having “a short fuse” and being “easily triggered.” Jared’s symptoms involved: out-of-control rage when startled, constant thoughts and memories of death-related events, weekly vivid nightmares that caused trouble sleeping, anxiety and a loss of interest in hobbies he once enjoyed with friends. Although all of these symptoms were very distressing, Jared was most worried about his extreme anger. His triggered temper caused road rage, confrontations with strangers who stood too close in checkout lines, and verbal abuse to his wife when she startled him. Jared, with the help of his family, sought help and was diagnosed with PTSD.
HELP IS AVAILABLE
If you have PTSD, it does not mean you are broken or damaged. Going through traumatic events and situations means that you were put to the test and didn’t crumble. Not all wounds are visible, and seeking help will help those wounds heal. The WCHO has made the following resources available.
Please reach out to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP) at 800-543-5080 or visit mseap.com. You may also contact First Health at 888-691-7867 or visit FSHealth.com.
For more information on these programs, visit the Well-being page.