Most people are aware that there is a link between combat and the potential for developing PTSD (Post-
Traumatic Stress Disorder.) Combat is a near perfect environment to create PTSD because of the violence, loss of life, and many tragic scenes. We know that as many as 13% of combat veterans may experience PTSD. It is important to ensure veterans receive care and support for these issues. However, it also important to recognize that PTSD affects more than combat vets. Any severe life-threatening situation has the potential to create PTSD symptoms. Additionally, witnessing a trauma can also lead to developing PTSD.
PTSD can touch anyone
Anyone from any background can develop PTSD. Women are at a greater risk for developing PTSD than men because women are more likely to experience violence. Rape victims or survivors of sexual assault often develop PTSD symptoms. Other common incidents like natural disasters, fires, terrorist actions, car crashes, abuse, or being the victim of a violent crime can create PTSD.
Even witnessing such events can lead to the development of PTSD. A study conducted after the attacks on 9/11 showed that 44% of the American population had stress reactions to the event. This occurred even though most Americans had only seen the events on TV. When you witness a traumatic event, your own sense of vulnerability and risk is heightened. Any illusion that you cannot be affected by such a trauma has been lost.
Vulnerable Groups
As mentioned, women are at greater risk for developing PTSD. Women are more likely to experience rape, sexual assault, abuse, stalking, etc. Additionally, they may experience difficulty in getting properly diagnosed with PTSD. Often their PTSD symptoms are confused with symptoms of depression. Even one traumatic event can lead to developing PTSD, and repeat traumas such as domestic violence or sex trafficking are linked to an even greater chance of developing PTSD. Trauma has been shown to in some cases to “rewire” the brain’s response mechanisms. You can read more on this in our previous blog, “What Trauma Does to the Brain.”
Some people are able to go through a trauma and still function in their normal roles. First Responders are a great example of this. They frequently experience and witness dangerous, life-threatening situations. While they may continue to do their critical tasks in the moment, the cumulative effect of those exposures puts them at risk for eventually developing PTSD. In fact, we know that First Responders, such as firefighters, police, EMS, etc. have levels of PTSD that are equal to if not higher than combat vets. Unfortunately, First Responders lack the same type of nationally funded programming that veterans receive from the VA. There is so much more that needs to be done to support our First Responders and offer them the resources they need for risking their lives for us.
External Causes
Unlike many other psychiatric diagnoses such as depression or schizophrenia, PTSD does not develop because of internal factors. There is no chemical imbalance that causes PTSD for example. PTSD occurs after a person has been exposed to a life-threatening event and the symptoms persist for at least 30 days after the trauma. While almost everyone experiences some short-term symptoms (e.g. loss of sleep, emotional upset) after experiencing a trauma, for those with PTSD the symptoms persist. We know that untreated, PTSD symptoms may go on for months, years, even decades.
In closing…
While combat experience is a proven catalyst, PTSD affects more than combat vets. The more trauma one experiences, the more likely you are to develop PTSD. This is why women, who experience more violence, and First Responders, who deal with trauma more frequently, are at greater risk. The symptoms associated with PTSD are severe and life-altering. To be diagnosed with PTSD an individual must have either directly experienced or witnessed an event which is potentially life-threatening. Their symptoms must persist for more than 30 days. There is also some good news. As described in our recent episode, PTSD treatments have come a very long way. Many people may experience significant improvement if not a complete cure. To learn more listen to Ep. 013: PTSD and Suicide, Part II- Why Are They Linked?“