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Understanding PTSD Families and PTSD Emotions
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Secondary or Those who in some way have been associated with victims of trauma may also become traumatized and experience what is called secondary or vicarious traumatic stresss disorder (STSD, VTSD). Traumatic experiences, and combat- related or active duty, may breaktdown trust relationships of the veteran. This creates increased capacities of the victim, whose life-long learned coping skills may have been sharttered by battle traumas. The victim no longer knows how to act or what to expect in order to survive. Those in the veteran’s life may begin to exhibit characteristics o symptoms similar to PTSD. Symptoms may occur in children who were not actuallyl born when the veteran served active duty. (IF the traumatic event occurred before birth of the child who later shows symptoms of PTSD). Children of some combat veterans who have the diagnosis of PTSD exhibit impaired self esteem, hyperactivity, poor reality testing, aggressive behavior, and may have coping difficulty with guilt, fear, rage, and feelings of mistrust. Those who study traumology recognize that those interacting in any manner with trauma survivors are, themselves, exposed to traumatic stressors. This booklet teaches PTSD symptoms and the diagnostic criteria as defined by the DSM IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders).
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The symptoms for STSD may be so familiar and yet feel strange and unexpected. The family member, peer, health care giver, anyone associated with the veteran diagnosed with PTSD may need perspective and support. When there is trauma there is pain and need for education, healing, and guidance. As with PTSD, awareness that you may suffer from the symptoms of Vicarious Trauma, and that you are not the first, is an important step. For some, this recognition brings about a welcome reframing for one’s world. For others, seeking treatment of some kind for themselves after having supported the veteran for some time, may be a welcome relief, and may move the familyi unit toward greater health and well-being. Untreated STSD may lead to more extreme reactions and eventual development of more chronic symptoms and a PTSD diagnosis. The four most common characteristics of PTSD are: visualization- flashbacks, the ability to recall, see in the mind’s eye a terrible event or trauma; reenactment- the trauma unconsciously acted out to restore power and control; fear of intimacy, pain, loss of control, victimization associated with relationships; and a sense of hopelessness- trauma has taught the veteran and his or her associates that at any moment safety could be destroyed. Any or all of these “common characteristics” and any of the PTSD symptoms described in this booklet may display themselves in the person suffering from Vicarious Trauma on some level. If you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself or someone you know, it is important to understand that, just like PTSD, ther is treatment and support for STSD. The resources may begin here in this bookelet with recognition and understanding, reading the references and resources to increase your knowledge. Then, perhaps, call or visit a local Vet Center to learn where you may find further support you may need depending on the severity of your symptoms. Improving your quality of life is essential! You deserve to heal just as the vet in your life has deserved your support and encouragement. Healing is a goal for one and all.
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