
Signs you need help:
After someone has experienced trauma, they may react with shock, denial, anger, guilt, shame, sadness or confusion. They may withdraw from others or feel anxious and fearful. Physically, they may have trouble sleeping or have nightmares, become easily startled, feel tired, have muscle aches, or feel on edge.
These symptoms may last from a few days to a few months after the traumatic event. It is important to remember that these are NORMAL reactions to an ABNORMAL event.
In PTSD, symptoms can occur as late as six months after the traumatic event.
Healing from the trauma takes time, and not everyone recovers at the same pace. Experts say it’s time to seek professional help when you:
- Have trouble functioning at home or work
- Experience severe anxiety, fear or depression
- Are unable to form close relationships
- Have terrifying memories, flashbacks or nightmares
- Avoid more things that remind you of the trauma
- Feel numb or disconnected from others
- Use drugs or alcohol to feel better.