PTSD Awareness: Facts and myths
By Christopher Goodson, Emergency Management Coordinator, Guest Writer
Throughout June, Governors State University’s (GovState) Department of Public Safety (DPS) recognizes Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month and the importance of staying informed on the condition.
There are often misconceptions about PTSD, so here are some myths and facts to consider.
Myths
- It's genetic
- Seeking services for PTSD make you weak
- It's an anxiety disorder
- It causes violent behavior
- It's only military related
Facts
- It's not limited to wartime trauma
- Not everyone gets PTSD after a trauma
- Men and women can be diagnosed with PTSD
- Symptoms don't start right away
- Only officially recognized as a diagnosis 44 years ago
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic or life-threatening event. While it's normal to feel stressed or anxious after such events, PTSD involves symptoms that persist beyond the initial shock and can significantly interfere with daily life.
The condition can occur in anyone who has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, however not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, and the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person. PTSD may stem from several experiences, the most common are related to traumas from military service, relationships, urban experiences, and childhood experiences.
Military Related PTSD: Military-related PTSD is a condition that can develop after exposure to traumatic events during military service. The nature of military operations, with its inherent dangers and high-stress environments, may lead people to be faced with combat exposure, violence or death, sexual trauma, workplace injuries, toxic work environments and hazing.
Relationship PTSD: Relationship PTSD is an informal term (clinical term that is not recognized by mental health professionals) that describes the psychological effects of being in a toxic or abusive relationship. It involves experiences in an individual’s past relationships that can have a significant impact on their mental and emotional well-being, even after the relationship has ended. This form of PTSD may be a result of physical, mental, and/or emotional abuse and is not just limited to romantic relationships but family, platonic and professional relationships as well.
Urban PTSD: Urban PTSD is an informal term (clinical term that is not recognized by mental health professionals) to describe the psychological stress and trauma experienced by individuals living in urban environments, specifically those characterized by high levels of crime, violence, poverty, and social disorganization. Living in these environments can expose people to chronic stressors and traumatic events, leading to a range of mental health challenges. Some of these experiences may include violence, poverty and social disparities, as well as overcrowding, discrimination and social isolation.
Childhood PTSD: Childhood PTSD, also known as early onset or developmental PTSD, occurs when children experience or witness traumatic events that overwhelm their ability to cope. It can affect their ability to regulate emotions, form healthy attachments, and navigate social interactions. These experiences can include witnessing or being a victim of violence, sexual abuse, neglect, crisis, accidents, and/or a prolonged exposure to distressing situations. Childhood PTSD can have significant long-term consequences on a child's development, social relationships, and mental health if left untreated.
Resources at GovState:
· Counseling and Wellness Center
The Counseling and Wellness Center (CWC) here at Governors State University provides comprehensive medical, mental health support and case management services.
The CWC is located in A1120 Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you would like to set an appointment, you can visit the office, or visit https://www.govst.edu/cwc-appointments/
Please Note: You must be an active GovState student to receive these services.
· Livingwell@GSU (708-235-7334)
Counseling and support services are provided 24/7/365 anytime, anywhere including off campus. This includes a mental health support line, mental health anonymous peer to peer support and an online behavioral health screening tool. LIVEWELL SCREENING
If you believe that you may have symptoms of PTSD you can participate in an online behavior health screening tool provided by LIVINGWELL@GSU.