PTSD Counseling NYC: How to Talk Trauma & Treatment with People Who Love You
People who know and love you want to help when they see you struggling. You understand that. You also know that good intentions can sometimes get in the way of healing. Particularly, if you’re managing PTSD.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can test loved ones’ understanding of your behavior and reactions. Your own worries about stigma and the toll of your trauma symptoms can impede communication. After a while, clarity, empathy, and connection may be compromised in many of your relationships.
So, what’s the solution? How can you and your loved ones work through your post-traumatic stress disorder productively?
PTSD Counseling NYC: What You Can Do For Yourself
Remember that you are in charge of disclosure.
You get to choose how this goes. With who you share your diagnosis is up to you. How much you share about your condition is your prerogative. Telling everyone everything in specific, traumatic detail? Not necessary.
It is perfectly okay to share enough information to help them understand your diagnosis and how to best help. Prepare for questions and probing, with a few calm replies like, “I appreciate your asking, but I’m just not ready to discuss that yet.” Trustworthy and supportive loved ones will accept your response, even if it takes a bit of time.
Embrace the power of opening up.
Talking about your PTSD can provide context for friends and family and ease your anxiety. Concerns about judgment or stigma often have less power when you share what is happening in your mind and body. Being communicative and vulnerable may open the door for more positivity, compassion, and support among your loved ones.
PTSD Counseling NYC: Key Ways to Encourage Your Loved Ones
Encourage them to see your disclosure as a positive step forward.
It is likely true that, at times, they felt upset or concerned about your symptoms. They may be well aware of how PTSD affects you and your relationships. Let them know that accepting your diagnosis is an opportunity to move toward treatment and a healthier future together.
Suggest ways to get trustworthy PTSD facts.
Despite the societal emphasis on mental health in recent years, there are still many erroneous characterizations of PTSD online and in the media. Let loved ones know it is important to get the facts. Do share what you know but don’t feel that you have to know everything. Take the opportunity to build a clear PTSD knowledge base together. Invite family and friends to seek educational resources and community support with you.
Urge them to trust the PSTD treatment process.
Let your loved ones know that you realize that they want to help. Honor those feelings with as much clarity and honesty as you can. Share as much of your treatment process as you feel comfortable with and encourage them to be supportive in specific ways.
For example, you may need help with rides to therapy, quiet time afterward, and the freedom to work through things privately. Most of all, encourage them to reserve judgment and remain respectful and kind throughout the process. You may even encourage them to seek the care and support of a therapist too.
PTSD Counseling NYC: How Your Trauma Therapist Can Help
PTSD is serious for you and the people that love you. You, your PTSD symptoms, and your relationships deserve professional attention. Committing to PTSD treatment with a qualified, experienced therapist can help secure lasting recovery and reassure your family and friends.
If you are ready to feel more grounded and connected again, now is the time to take action.
Learn more about PTSD Treatment services for help.
The Relationship Suite
We are a group of skilled therapists, ready when you are. We have the experience to support trauma sufferers. Please read more about PTSD therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and contact us for support soon. You can feel better and live well.
Learn more about our Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Treatment services 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, Roslyn, Port Washington, 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.
