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Why I Share My PTSD Story
Like some people, at times I’ve thought that my PTSD story isn’t legitimate enough or dramatic enough to be told.
Because I consult in the area of PTSD, I’ve sometimes made the mistake of comparing my experiences to other people’s. My sexual abuse came at the hands of strangers. I’ve suffered ongoing medical trauma as an adult, as well as the heartache of caring for two loved ones who died of terminal diseases. And I experienced secondary trauma as I walked alongside a friend with CPTSD.
But PTSD by definition is based on an individual’s experience. In other words, what may be traumatic for me may not be traumatic for you. And that’s why it’s so important for me to tell MY story.
- Medical trauma is real, and many people don’t understand they can develop symptoms of PTSD based on their medical experiences.
- Trauma related to caregiving and losing loved ones is real and can be life-altering.
- Secondary trauma is real and can be as powerful as the PTSD of your loved one.
These painful issues and others can lead to symptoms of PTSD–addictions, obsessive-compulsive behaviors, flashbacks, avoidance, numbing out, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
I tell my story so others feel known. So they feel hope.
I also tell my story because telling it creates community and healing. It connects me to others in meaningful ways as we share our pain, struggles, and successes.
Somewhere, my struggle is everyone’s struggle, and theirs is mine.
Perhaps you or someone you know has trauma story that can offer hope to others. We’d love to hear from you.
–Shelly
