Debunking Common PTSD Myths

The myths that surround post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need to overcome its challenges. Thus, the key to effective treatment for PTSD often starts with understanding its origins.

Psychotherapist Mitchel Eisenstein, LCSW, diagnoses and treats PTSD via the convenience of telehealth visits from his office in East Setauket, New York.

He specializes in comprehensive care that addresses the challenges of PTSD, including educational support that broadens understanding of this problematic but highly treatable condition.

Here’s Mitchel’s take on some popular myths surrounding PTSD:

Myth 1: Only people in the military get PTSD

While PTSD is often associated with military personnel due to the nature of their work, it isn’t exclusive to them.

PTSD can affect anyone who experiences trauma. That can include an accident, natural disaster, or violent acts that affected you personally. It may also include a mugging, car accident, or other trauma you witnessed.

According to the National Center for PTSD, around 7%-8% of the U.S. population experiences PTSD at some point in their lives, and that includes civilians from all walks of life.

Myth 2: PTSD develops immediately after trauma

PTSD can develop anytime after a traumatic event, sometimes immediately and sometimes months or years later. This delayed onset is one reason why PTSD can be so difficult to recognize and diagnose.

Reminders of the trauma, new stressors, or other significant life changes may trigger symptoms.

Myth 3: PTSD indicates emotional weakness

PTSD isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a serious mental health condition that results from exposure to extreme stress or trauma.

Anyone can develop PTSD, regardless of their mental strength or resilience. It’s essential to recognize that seeking help and treatment is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Myth 4: PTSD is incurable

PTSD is treatable, and many people recover from it. Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), ongoing support through stress management, etc., reduce trauma’s hold on your life.

Early intervention and a combination of therapies tailored to the individual's needs can significantly improve their quality of life.

Myth 5: PTSD causes violent tendencies

PTSD can cause irritability and anger. However, most individuals with PTSD aren’t violent. They’re more likely to withdraw and experience internal struggles than act out violently.

Myth 6: Flashbacks are always part of PTSD

PTSD manifests differently in each person, with symptoms including flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, mood swings, avoidance of certain places or people, and emotional numbness. The severity and combination of symptoms vary, requiring personalized treatment strategies.

Myth 7: Talking about the trauma worsens symptoms

It can be challenging to talk about traumatic experiences, but doing so under the guidance of a trained therapist can be therapeutic. Avoiding discussing or recalling the trauma can prolong symptoms and hinder recovery.

Therapy provides a safe space to process the trauma’s effect on your emotions, life choices, and relationships.

Myth 8: PTSD only affects the mind

Physical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, chest pain, and gastrointestinal problems are common among those with PTSD. The condition is deeply interconnected with physical health, making a comprehensive treatment approach essential.

Schedule a visit with Mitchel Eisenstein, LCSW, today by calling the office or requesting an appointment online.