Although the most frequently thought of group when thinking about PTSD, it’s not just those who have been in combat that suffer from it. PTSD following rape and industrial accidents is just as likely, yet isn’t recognized as such.
Most people think of flashbacks and a general “jumpiness” when they think of PTSD symptoms. But those symptoms can also include (among other things):
- Anger and irritability
- Guilt, shame, or self-blame
- Substance abuse
- Feelings of mistrust and betrayal
- Depression and hopelessness
- Suicidal thoughts and feelings
- Feeling alienated and alone
- Physical aches and pains
Having PTSD sucks. I know because I suffered from it for years. It’s hard to live a “normal” life when you’re stuck in those patterns, and it’s hard to get help when people don’t consider the fact that you may have PTSD even if you haven’t been in combat. It happens. It’s real. PTSD isn’t just for our military.
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/05/140519105812.htm