/assets/images/provider/photos/2789567.jpeg)
Breaking the Stigma: 5 Myths About PTSD, Debunked
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. If you’re dealing with PTSD or other mental health issues, now is the perfect time to get help. PTSD impacts a much broader range of individuals than initially believed. Here are five myths we’ve debunked to help break the stigma surrounding this all-too-prevalent condition.
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner Bosede Iwuamadi, DNP, PMHNP, provides compassionate care for patients experiencing PTSD and other mental health issues through telehealth at Newstone Behavioral Health in Garland, Texas.
What is PTSD?
After you experience a traumatic event, you may experience subsequent anxiety, flashbacks, and uncontrollable thoughts. If symptoms last for more than a month, it may signal PTSD, which might include:
- Avoidance of places, people, or other reminders of the traumatic event
- Intrusive memories via flashbacks, vivid thoughts, or nightmares
- Negative changes in thinking and mood
- Altered physical and emotional reactions, such as anxiety and sleep issues
Dr. Iwuamadi discusses these issues and more to help you work through your trauma to cope better in your day-to-day life.
5 myths and truths about PTSD
People may shy away from getting help due to certain stigmas and myths surrounding this issue, including the following.
Myth #1: Only combat veterans suffer from PTSD
While military personnel are at a high risk of developing PTSD, anyone who’s experienced a traumatic event is susceptible. For example, involvement in a car accident is the most common cause of PTSD in the U.S., according to the American Psychological Association.
Myth #2: People with PTSD are weak
PTSD is a normal reaction to an abnormally disturbing event. It has nothing to do with strength or weakness, although certain people may be more disposed to experience PTSD. Around 1 in 3 people who experience trauma develop PTSD. Mental health history, genetics, social support, and other factors may all play a part.
Myth #3: Admitting to PTSD makes matters worse
In the past, people experiencing PTSD found themselves ostracized, which exacerbated their symptoms. However, experts and laypeople now understand this condition better, and the stigma has waned.
Dr. Iwuamadi and our team continue to debunk misinformation about PTSD, a condition affecting millions of people in the United States alone. Opening up about your issues with a doctor and loved ones is the first step toward healing.
Myth #4: People with PTSD are dangerous
On the contrary, many suffering from PTSD and other mental health issues are more likely to become a victim than a perpetrator of violence. The connection between PTSD and violence probably stems from depictions of soldiers returning from war in the movies and other media.
Intense reactions to flashbacks or other symptoms usually trigger any aggressive behaviors associated with PTSD. Violence is more often the cause of PTSD than the effect.
Myth #5: PTSD is untreatable
Dr. Iwuamadi evaluates you for PTSD by reviewing symptoms, medical and mental health history, and psychological tests. She then provides invaluable treatment, which may include psychotherapy and medication management for anxiety and/or depression. When appropriate, she also involves your family and others in your treatment plan.
How we treat PTSD
Cognitive behavioral therapy is especially helpful in treating PTSD. Dr. Iwuamadi focuses on:
- Your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors
- Current problems and symptoms
- Behavioral patterns that make it difficult to function
The doctor adjusts your intense PTSD reactions by interrupting disturbing thought patterns. She also helps you face avoided issues or situations to diffuse traumatic memories, removing the feeling of danger they provoke, making it easier to cope.
Dr. Iwuamadi helps patients manage their mental health at Newstone Behavioral Health in Garland, Texas. If you suspect you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of PTSD or other mental health issues, contact us today.