Disability Support Project
Financial Support | Benefits Advice | Disability Awareness | Mental Wellbeing
Disability Support & Awareness, Advice and Guidance for Benefits, Tribunals, Applications, Form Filling, Financial Planning and Mental Wellbeing.
Not For Profit charity Ref: 1177602
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is often linked with the military, but can affect anyone at any age. It is also widely lacking in awareness and often misunderstood. Those suffering from PTSD will often have nightmares, flashbacks, feelings of guilt or isolation, insomnia and irritability.
PTSD is a hidden disability as it shows no physical signs, but can be debilitating in certain circumstances such as fireworks where sudden, loud or unexpected noised can be heard. Events that trigger reminders of trauma can also be difficult to deal with and can cause a shut down or outburst.
Always remember that although someone may seem fine, they could be battling a difficult mental condition, give space and support not judgement if you don't understand their behaviour.
What can trigger PTSD?
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can be triggered by any situation someone finds traumatic, such as:
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Physical assault.
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Sexual abuse.
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Serious road accidents.
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Childbirth experiences.
Although it can occur immediately after the event, it can also occur weeks, months or even a year later depending on the individual. More severe trauma can result in complex PTSD.
Treatment for PTSD
If you have had a traumatic experience and feel you might have post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you should always consult you GP in the first instance. Although many people will recover after a few weeks, many also require treatment from a mental health specialist and support from family and friends.
Those suffering with PTSD will often have their own coping methods to take their mind off of the trauma they have faced. Group meetings or talking to someone who has gone through PTSD can be a greaat way to learn other coping methods and find one that works for you.
Practical Help For Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
If you cannot work due to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Disability Support Project can help with applications for UC50 and PIP, providing we have adequate support from your mental health specialist and GP with documentation and diagnosis.
We are also hoping to have a mentor group and therapy sessions running in the near future and a link will be provided here if we can. If this is of interest please get in touch.
Your GP or mental health practitioner will also be able to direct you to local support groups and specialists.