PTSD Counseling NYC: 4 PTSD Myths That May Be Holding Up Your Healing

Name: The Relationship Suite
Address: 352 7th Avenue, Suite 1111, Suite 1111, NY, 10001, US
Telephone: 917-273-8836

Have the last few weeks, months, or even years been bogged down in memories you can’t shake or reactivity you feel helpless to reign in? Are you ready to deal with your traumatic past?

Whatever you’ve experienced, please know that PTSD is not a sign of weakness. It isn’t a punishment or life sentence to endure. It’s simply an indication that you need care and comfort. You can experience relief and recovery. You can enjoy life and relationships again too. You aren’t alone and you don’t have to push people away to get a handle on things.

Too often, PTSD sufferers, or those of us navigating PTSD with a loved one, are confused and conflicted by the condition. To heal well, it’s vital to know more accurate information about PTSD.

Culturally, PTSD is often linked to war veterans and the survivors of natural tragedies. Unfortunately, movies and other media tend to saddle the condition with a host of erroneous information and dangerous stigma as well. So much so, that your own self-compassion and desire to seek support may have been hindered by certain PTSD myths.

To glean a clear understanding of life after trauma, it can help to deal with the misinformation linked to this anxiety disorder first. Let’s take some time to sort the myths from the facts and determine how to get the help and post-traumatic stress treatment you deserve.

PTSD Counseling NYC: 4 PTSD Myths That Can Hold Up Your Healing

PTSD Myth #1: If You’ve Been Traumatized, Then You’ve Got PTSD

Fact #1: Not at all. Many survivors are symptom-free a year after a traumatic event.

Trauma is tricky. It affects us differently. The idea that PTSD just shows up the day after a traumatic event isn’t necessarily accurate. Symptoms may exist unnoticed and erupt when you encounter a triggering situation. While symptoms of PTSD usually occur within three months, sometimes it takes longer.

For some, the memory of traumatic circumstances “stick” in their minds and bodies, refusing to fade or let go. On the other hand, some people find that traumatic experiences impact them relatively short term. Additionally, there are other survivors who quickly experience growth and a new sense of purpose. Regardless, it’s important to know that research indicates that trauma can alter brain chemistry, shifting perception and beliefs markedly.

PTSD Myth #2: PTSD is No Big Deal

Fact #2: PTSD is not resolved by avoidance. Unaddressed, it can be devastating.

If you are dealing with PTSD, you may be living with the fallout in your life and relationships, as well as your own mind. The impact of trauma-related, involuntary responses, intrusive thoughts, unhelpful beliefs, and unproductive coping mechanisms can be extremely disruptive.

To your loved ones, your symptoms may be exasperating and dramatic, even embarrassing. Many PTSD sufferers’ traumas are compounded by the loss of their families, careers, and a sense of purpose. Without ongoing support, the risk of substance abuse, depression, and suicide can increase substantially.

PTSD Myth #3: Mentally or Spiritually Strong People Don’t Get PTSD

Fact #3: PTSD is an equal opportunity anxiety disorder.

Anyone who witnesses or experiences a traumatic event can develop PTSD. A traumatic event robs you of the sense that you are in control. If you’re human, you’re susceptible to trauma and PTSD. Again, even those who endure the same stressor or crisis have varying degrees of response. This has nothing to do with the depth of their faith, mental toughness, or physical strength.

You should know, however, that certain factors do contribute to the likelihood of experiencing PTSD. These include,

Gender. According to the National Center for PTSD, nearly 10% of women cope with PTSD during their lifetimes compared to 4% of men. Additionally, women are diagnosed with PTSD at double the rate of men.

Interpersonal trauma. Sexual assault, war, domestic abuse, etc are more likely to result in PTSD. Victims of these experiences tend to show signs of the disorder in higher numbers than those who survive traumatic accidents or natural disasters.

Lack of social support. Without compassionate, experienced guidance, PTSD sufferers have difficulty recovering and maintaining their recovery.

PTSD Myth #4: It’s Too Late to Deal With Old Trauma

Fact #4. As long as trauma and PTSD are a problem, you deserve support.

There are lots of reasons you might have waited to get treatment, but don’t beat yourself up or suffer any longer. Your trauma and the associated PTSD symptoms deserve attention. Time needn’t be an obstacle to your treatment and healing. Talk therapy or Eye Movement Desensitization and ReprocessingEMDR therapy, offered by a qualified professional, can help you limit unwanted emotional reactions and reduce or eliminate PTSD symptoms.

PTSD Counseling NYC: Let A Professional Help You Heal

PTSD can tax your emotions and confuse your thinking. However, the facts about PTSD are clear to a therapist. Please seek the support you deserve. Together you can dispel the myths and make choices that restore function and freedom from trauma-related anxiety. The clarity and compassion of a knowledgeable mental health ally are invaluable. You are not alone.

The Relationship Suite

We’re a group of skilled therapists ready when you are. We have the experience to support trauma sufferers. Please read more about PTSD therapy and contact us for support soon. You can feel better and live well.

To learn more about our Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment services, click here.

If you’re struggling, call 917-273-8836 or Contact us for a complimentary consultation to learn more about counseling in NYC and how we can help you.

We are a group of skilled therapists specializing in individual and couples counseling. Since Covid, we have been working with couples via Online Counseling in New York, and New York City including Manhattan, Queens, Brooklyn, Bronx, Staten Island, Westchester, Long Island, Port Washington, Roslyn, Manhasset, South Hampton, East Hampton, and Montauk. To schedule a complimentary consultation, click HERE.

We also provide Virtual Counseling in New Jersey, Hoboken, Jersey City, Princeton, Chatham, Morris, Westfield, Union, Bergen County, Colts Neck, and Tenafly. Schedule a complimentary consultation by clicking HERE.