Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disorder that develops in those who’ve experienced trauma, a dramatic situation, or dangerous event. It’s natural to feel scared, shocked, and anxious after a traumatic event. In fact, the body’s ‘flight-or-flight’ response is meant to protect a person from harm.

There’s a wide range of reaction to trauma.

A lot of people recover from trauma naturally but, for those who don’t, PTSD might develop. Unfortunately, there’s a lot of misconceptions surrounding PTSD and those who suffer. Here’s what you need to know.

Time Heals All

Trauma can linger for decades beyond the initial experience. It can interfere with your daily life and growth. For some, untreated trauma can become part of their identity over the years. Someone with symptoms of PTSD should not rely on time as a healing mechanism.

Only The Weak Develop PTSD

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Though it’s unknown why some people develop PTSD and other don’t, inner strength has nothing to do with it. PTSD is a disorder that should be treated by a qualified professional.

I Should Be Able To Control This Alone

Wrong! This type of thinking adds to the stigma surrounding mental health conditions. You wouldn’t hesitate to see a doctor for a broken ankle, and you shouldn’t hesitate to get help for PTSD either.

Certain groups are more reluctant to reach out than others-especially men. No one should suffer alone. 

Crisis Services

Always contact the Cedar Oaks Team with any concerns or questions. In an emergency, or if you are unable to contact us, listed below are some additional helplines and advocacy services. These are run by different organizations.  They are free services that you can use for talk or text support in an emotional crisis. For a medical emergency always call 988.

Suicide Prevention Lifeline

If you would like immediate help, please call or text 1-800-273-8255 (TALK). Through this toll-free phone number, we offer a network of crisis centers across the country. These centers staff their lines with people who are trained to listen and offer support to people in emotional crisis. If you are in an immediate medical crisis, please call 988.

North Carolina Hopeline – you talk, and we listen.

CALL OR TEXT: 919-231-4525 | 877-235-4525

https://www.hopeline-nc.org/

NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Health

Crisis line, information, and advocacy

NAMI North Carolina

Ready to find out more?

Take the first step today