💙 Supporting Someone You Love with PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a natural response to experiencing or witnessing a deeply distressing event(s). It’s not a sign of weakness—it’s the brain’s way of trying to protect itself after trauma. 

People with PTSD may experience: 

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories 
• Nightmares or disturbed sleep 
• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma 
• Emotional numbness or detachment 
• Irritability, anger, or strong emotional reactions 
• Feeling on edge, anxious, or easily startled e stress and anxiety, and improve your overall well-being.

Recovery comes in ups and downs.
PTSD can make someone feel on edge, withdrawn, or emotionally intense. These reactions aren’t always about you—they are often responses to trauma, not personal attacks. Healing takes time and can feel unpredictable, with good days and challenging days; even hours. 

Even if you don’t fully understand your loved one’s experience, you can honor it with compassion and respect. Supporting their healing doesn’t mean neglecting your own emotional needs—you can care for them and yourself at the same time. 

Triggers can be unpredictable.
Sights, sounds, smells, or even emotions can activate traumatic memories. When that happens, your calm presence can help them feel safe again. 

💬 Listen without trying to fix.
You don’t need the perfect words. Just being there—listening without judgment—helps more than advice ever could. 

🤝 Respect boundaries.
Healing from trauma often means reclaiming control. Let them decide if, when and how to share their story. 

💗 Validate feelings.
Say things like: 

• “That sounds really hard.” 
• “I can see why that would be upsetting.” 
• “You’re not alone. I’m here with you.” 

🌿 Learn about trauma.
Understanding PTSD can help you respond with empathy instead of frustration. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd?utm 

Supporting someone with PTSD can be challenging. If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained, you may benefit from therapy or additional coping strategies. Taking care of your own mental health helps you support your loved one more effectively. 

🏡 Create safety and predictability.
Calm tones, gentle touch (if welcome), and consistent routines foster a sense of security. 

🗓 Encourage—but don’t pressure—therapy.
Support their healing journey by gently suggesting therapy, EMDR, or support groups if they aren’t already connected to care. 

💬 Use grounding techniques together.
When they’re triggered, try things like: 

• Focus on the 5 senses; Naming something you see, something you can touch, something you can hear, something you can smell, and something you can taste 
• Taking slow breaths together 
• Reminding them that they are safe in the present moment 

❤ Take care of yourself too.
Supporting someone with PTSD can be emotionally taxing. Set healthy boundaries, seek your own support, and practice self-care regularly. 

Avoid: 

• “Just get over it.” 
• “It’s all in your head.” 
• “Other people have it worse.” 
• “You need to move on.” 
• “You’re just too sensitive.” Our personal growth counseling services can help you achieve your full potential and live a more fulfilling life. Our licensed therapists provide guidance and support to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, set goals, and develop strategies to achieve them.

Instead, try: 

• “I believe you.” 
• “You don’t have to face this alone.” 
• “I’m proud of you for getting through this moment.” 
• “You don’t have to talk about it, but I’m here if you want to.” 
• It makes sense that you feel that way after what you’ve been through. 

PTSD doesn’t mean a lifetime of suffering. With time, therapy, and support, many people rediscover peace, connection, and joy.
Your compassion can be a steady light as your loved one finds their way through the dark. Our positive psychology counseling services can help you develop a more positive outlook on life. Our experienced counselors use evidence-based techniques to help you cultivate gratitude, resilience, and optimism, and improve your overall well-being.

🌸 Remember: 

You can’t heal them—but you can walk with them. 

Created by Serenity Circle Counseling
Supporting individuals and families on their journey toward hope, healing, and connection.