Sexual trauma and PTSD
I’m actually on the lakeside right now, just trying to ground myself, be near water because it’s… oh, my heart is like thundering in my chest. Sometimes if I talk too fast, it can be because I’m feeling hyper vigilant. I… I got to take a moment to breathe. - RCMP Veteran
In Grief and trauma, the symptoms and effects of PTSD are addressed in greater depth. Here is a summary:
Symptoms of PTSD
Some examples are:
- Hyper-vigilance, being very aware of your surroundings and the possibility of danger or threats.
- Intrusive memories of the trauma, while awake or asleep.
- Flashbacks, nightmares.
- Difficulty regulating emotions (anger, feeling vulnerable and not being in control).
Some people can kind of mask that there’s all this stuff. Then, they go home and they’re like… they completely unload. So, the families suffer for it, right? At work, it seems like, oh this person has it totally together and then all of a sudden, wha- what happened? I don’t… I don’t understand. - Military Veteran
Effects
PTSD may result in:
- Isolating self because of intrusive memories,
- Panic attacks due to triggers,
- Reluctance to engage in life, or even go outside.
It is important that to seek professional help if you are experiencing any of these symptoms or impacts.