Who is at risk of PTSD?
It’s not easy to pinpoint a certain demographic that would be at risk for PTSD. PTSD is the result of a traumatizing and/or life-altering experience in a person’s life. Even in one’s daily life, one goes through a lot of stress. The recent earthquake was by far an immensely stressful event, and it can result in PTSD. But there are symptoms which will make it easy to identifying patients with PTSD.
What are some of the symptoms of PTSD?
Usually, a PTSD patient shows symptoms of extreme anxiety, panic, and even flashbacks of the event that triggered such a case. They may be unusually sad, angry, and irritable or become aggressive. They may go through emotional numbness, and try to avoid people and prefer isolation. Sleeplessness, eating disorder, nightmares and difficulties in concentrating, remembering and making decisions are also some of the symptoms of PTSD.
How to diagnose that someone is suffering from PTSD?
It all comes down to for how long a person shows such symptoms. It’s normal if a person is anxious and panic-stricken and shows signs of stress and other difficulties for a few days, s/he may be suffering from other health problems and it should be diagnosed as well. But if the person continues to behave like that for longer periods, say weeks and months, it may mean that the person is suffering from PTSD and may need help.
Given the current situation, do you think people are likely to be diagnosed with PTSD?
It ‘s very complicated to say who may or may not suffer from it right now. The current situation itself is abnormal and people reacting the way they are – fearful, hyper vigilant, panicked, having flashbacks – are normal because there are many who lost their near and dear ones, those who got injured or lost their limbs, and those who lost their houses and properties. It’s a traumatic experience for even those who got away unscathed. But this is a critical time, as it may trigger many cases of PTSD. Old people and children are more likely to suffer from it if proper steps aren’t adopted to take care of it right now.
What are the ways to tackle the symptoms?
Right now, it’s very important that family and friends are there for each other in this hour of need. Everyone is anxious for the safety of each other, and it’s important that they give timely updates about one another’s safety. Of course, staying together and communicating is equally important. It also helps if you share your fears and distressing thoughts with each other, as you can be comforted by those who care about you. You shouldn’t hesitate to be expressive about your experiences, as it helps to release the disturbing thoughts that may be plaguing you.
You should also keep your physical safety in mind, as it has direct effect on you. Stay in an open space if you fear that the big structures are dangerous. The main point is that you don’t put yourself under pressure. You should take it as easy.
What can be the challenges for people taking care of near ones who are at risk of PTSD?
You have to be very patient with the situation as it has to do with something very delicate. But in the present context, it’s the children who are suffering from a lot of anxiety and stress. They aren’t being able to handle the event well, and the aftershocks only add to the problem. As adults, you may have a big role to build their psychological strength.
Also, like I said earlier, it was a traumatic experience for all. People may react in different ways, but being supportive of one another will go a long way. If nothing works, then you can take medications. But you need to visit a professional for that. Don’t hesitate to seek help if you’re overly anxious.
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