Understanding PTSD and its Effects on Marriage

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that occurs following a life-threatening event such as military combat, natural disasters, terrorist incidents, serious accidents, or physical or sexual assault. Approximately eight percent of all people will experience PTSD at some point in their life. That number rises to about 30 percent for combat veterans. Those suffering with PTSD may experience several different types of symptoms: Reliving. Becoming emotionally or physically upset when reminded or triggered. Nightmares and flashbacks are extremely common. Avoidance. Staying away from places or people that remind one of the traumatic events. Isolating behaviors. Numbing. Feeling numb is typical. Numbing oneself with substances such as drugs and alcohol is prevalent. Anxiety. Feeling on guard, unable to relax, irritable, anxious, or startling easily are all characteristic. Addictive. Participating in addictive behaviors such as excessive gambling, pornography, or substance abuse. PTSD not only affects one’s mental health but it can negatively affect one’s marriage as well. The symptoms of PTSD can create problems with trust, closeness, intimacy, communication, decision-making, and problem-solving, often giving rise to the destruction of relationships. The loss of interest in social activities, hobbies, or sex can lead to one’s partner feeling a lack of connection or being pushed away. A PTSD spouse can feel isolated, alienated and frustrated from...
Source: World of Psychology - Category: Psychiatry & Psychology Authors: Tags: Addiction Anger Disorders General Marriage and Divorce Medications Psychology Psychotherapy PTSD Relationships Trauma Anxiety Disorder Counseling Medicine Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Psychological Trauma Source Type: blogs