Overload: The Hidden Struggles of PTSD in Everyday People

This art piece is all about portraying one of the inner experiences of PTSD in a “normal” guy-next-door context. There are a lot of people out there with PTSD and you would never know it. I knew a gentleman diagnosed with PTSD, and he told the most vivid account of his experience that led to that diagnosis. On the outside he seemed “normal”, but on the inside he was constantly setting up walls and protections against potential outside attacks. Without those protections I believe he was 110% capable of handling an emergency in the slim chance one would arise. I love it when these people show up in therapy, because like everyone else they deserve to live a life outside of constant fear and overwhelming symptoms.

What is PTSD and How Can You Cope With it?

PTSD stands for post-traumatic stress disorder, a mental health condition that affects some people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as a violent assault, a natural disaster, a car accident, or a war. PTSD can cause distressing and intrusive symptoms, such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and negative thoughts and feelings. These symptoms can interfere with daily life and relationships, and make it hard to enjoy activities that used to be fun.

PTSD is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. It is a normal reaction to an abnormal situation. Anyone can develop PTSD at any age, regardless of their gender, culture, or background. According to the National Center for PTSD², about six out of every 100 people will experience PTSD at some point in their lives.

If you think you may have PTSD, you are not alone. There are effective treatments and coping strategies that can help you overcome your symptoms and regain control of your life. Here are some steps you can take to start your recovery journey:

Seek Professional Help

A mental health professional who has experience with PTSD can diagnose your condition and offer you evidence-based treatments, such as psychotherapy and medication. Psychotherapy can help you process your trauma, reduce your distress, and change your negative beliefs and behaviors. Medication can help you manage your anxiety, depression, or insomnia. You can find a therapist near you through the National Center for PTSD² or the Anxiety and Depression Association of America.

Join a Support Group

A support group can provide you with a safe and supportive environment where you can share your feelings and experiences with others who understand what you are going through. You can learn from each other’s coping skills, get emotional support, and reduce your sense of isolation. You can find a support group near you through the National Center for PTSD² or the Sidran Institute.

Practice Self-Care

Taking care of yourself can help you cope with your symptoms and improve your well-being. Self-care includes getting enough sleep, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and drugs, and doing activities that make you happy and relaxed. You can also try relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, meditation, yoga, or massage, to calm your mind and body.

Reach Out to Others

Having a strong social support network can help you cope with your trauma and reduce your stress. You can reach out to your family members, friends, co-workers, or community members who care about you and offer you emotional support. You can also volunteer for a cause that matters to you or join a hobby group that interests you. Connecting with others who share your values and passions can help you feel less alone and more hopeful.

Seek help if you have suicidal thoughts. If you ever feel like hurting yourself or ending your life, please seek help immediately. You are not alone and there is hope for recovery. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or text HOME to 741741 to talk to a trained counselor who can help you cope with your crisis.

Source: Conversation with Bing, 5/19/2023
(1) NIMH » Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd.
(2) Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355967.
(3) Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) – Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355973.