Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a life-changing illness that has serious impacts on people’s quality of life. Increased anxiety, agitation, hypervigilance, and other symptoms of PTSD can make day-to-day activities difficult, and the disorder can also have a ripple effect on those closest to the person affected. For veterans who have experienced trauma during their military service, PTSD can greatly impact not only them but also their families. Here are some of the ways PTSD can affect veterans and their families.
Difficulty Enjoying the Moment
Life is made up of beautiful, joyous moments that should be fully enjoyed with the family. Unfortunately, for people with PTSD, the joy in these moments can be hindered due to emotional numbing. For those wondering how does PTSD affect veterans and their families on an everyday basis, consider emotional numbing.
Emotional numbing is a hallmark symptom of PTSD, where people cannot readily express joy even in special moments. However, while some people believe that PTSD eradicates the ability to feel joy, studies show that emotional numbing is not permanent.
Rather, it is a symptom of PTSD, since people do not want to re-experience trauma and therefore lose the ability to respond to stimuli. Over time, however, the right combination of treatment can have a positive impact on people’s enjoyment.
Negative Impacts on Family
While lack of enjoyment is a symptom of PTSD and a valid reaction to trauma, families of veterans might feel like they are unable to connect with their loved ones. Spouses might feel as if their veteran is emotionally unavailable, and children might feel like their parent does not want to interact with them.
It’s important to know that these experiences are completely valid. However, it’s equally critical to distinguish between symptoms and intentions. People with PTSD can still connect with their families, even if they are struggling to show emotion in the moment. By educating themselves on PTSD and communicating openly, families can learn how to support their loved ones through these difficult times.
Increased Anger
Anger is one of the most difficult emotions spurred by PTSD, and it can have a significant impact on family dynamics. Those with PTSD might find themselves getting easily agitated or losing their temper more frequently than before. Research shows that anger in people with PTSD, both civilians and veterans, is associated with:
- Aggressive behavior
- Interpersonal conflict
- Suicide risk
- Lingering anger post-PTSD treatment
This anger can be especially challenging for spouses and children who may not understand the underlying triggers and emotions. It’s important to remember that anger is a common symptom of PTSD, and it does not mean that a person is intentionally trying to hurt their loved ones.
By seeking therapy and finding healthy coping mechanisms, individuals with PTSD can learn how to manage their anger in a way that does not harm their relationships with their family. Treatment usually includes cognitive-behavioral therapy as well as PTSD treatment, but anger management might also be necessary.
Substance Abuse
Substance abuse issues are a stark reality for many veterans with PTSD. Statistics from the Department of Veterans Affairs show an estimated 2 out of 10 veterans with PTSD also have a co-occurring substance use disorder. In addition, one-third of veterans seeking help for addiction also have PTSD.
PTSD can be incredibly difficult, if not impossible, to manage on one’s own. When combined with substance abuse, it can be even more challenging, creating issues such as:
- Increased avoidance of PTSD triggers due to substance or alcohol use
- Difficulty in relationships
- Legal problems
- Financial struggles
- Loss of employment or housing
- Increased risk of self-harm and suicide
Seeking help for both PTSD and substance abuse is crucial for veterans to achieve a successful recovery. Comprehensive veteran addiction treatment that addresses both issues simultaneously can significantly improve outcomes and overall quality of life.
Supporting Veterans with PTSD
PTSD does not just impact the individual, but also their loved ones. Family members may struggle to understand their loved one’s behavior pre- or post-diagnosis, leading to feelings of frustration, confusion, anger, or guilt. These emotions can further strain relationships if left unaddressed.
For family members supporting a veteran with PTSD, it is essential to educate themselves about the disorder and its impacts. There are several resources loved ones can use to gain a better understanding, such as:
- Participating in support groups for families of veterans with PTSD
- Seeking individual therapy or counseling to process their own emotions and develop coping strategies
- Exploring residential treatment options for veterans
- Seeking family therapy to address underlying issues and improve communication
Get Help For Veterans Today
PTSD has a tendency to not only impact the individual but also those closest to them. Whether you are a veteran struggling with PTSD or a family member, SEE Purpose Center for Addiction Treatment is here to help. We offer veteran addiction treatment services in Indiana. Our dedicated residential treatment facility is equipped to help veterans looking for round-the-clock, high-quality addiction treatment. Whether you need to detox, stabilize through inpatient treatment or need help with aftercare planning, our team is at the ready. Call us today to start the healing process from addiction and PTSD, and let us help you find your purpose.
