Is PTSD a new mental health epidemic or a psychiatrist's go-to diagnosis? (WARNING! May contain trigger content)

[Just Sara]

• Is PTSD over diagnosed?

• Is knowing I have PTSD helpful for my recovery?
• Is there a science behind PTSD?
• Is PTSD the new Mental Health buzz word?
• Should PTSD from domestic trauma be called something different from that of war veterans or emergency workers? Is there a difference?

These questions have come up for discussion in my circle over the past couple of years since I was diagnosed as having chronic PTSD with anxiety/panic disorder. I've not only faced cruel generalisations, but also accusations of putting it on as an excuse and unkind comments about my lack of resilience.

I would like this space to be one of relevant information, healthy/helpful/respectful discussion and wise/experienced counsel; my intent is to dispel myth and stigma about PTSD, so when the term is used on this forum, it can be understood better by those reading as well as people who post.

WE ARE NOT MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS OR THERAPISTS AND CANNOT GIVE INDIVIDUAL ADVICE OR REFERAL as per the rules of posting.

If facts are used, it would be preferable to reference authors, books, research or current study etc. Beginning a sentence with; "I heard once..." or "I saw a documentary/movie the other day..." should be taken/given as experiential instead of fact.

When using personal experience from traumatic events, please try to keep to topic and be mindful of member's feelings. There are many other threads dedicated to trauma for people to share/contribute and ask questions. This thread is to discuss what PTSD means to society and psychology/psychiatry from a lay person's perspective.

Do any of the above questions resonate with you? Please discuss...

Sara

[SuperSonic]

Hi Sara,

I would like to respond to your second point about 'PTSD' - 'Is knowing I have PTSD helpful for my recovery? - from my own perspective.

Firstly, yes, the diagnosis of Complex PTSD has been helpful to me. It's explained a lot of my behaviours and reactions, distrust, self-medicating and paranoid thinking. Everyone's situation is unique, but for 44 years I kept trying to 'pretend' I was normal. The fact is, I am 'normal' and so are you.

My mind was wired to react in a different way years ago when I was a child. Best to know and understand this now than to continue to mask it. That diagnosis has provided me with relief, but that's just my situation.

Secondly, if you have questions or doubts - by all means get a second opinion. Doctors are just people too, they make mistakes.

Thirdly, I've never actually confided with family or friends that I have PTSD. If you're wary of being judged, maybe think about the company you keep and also, whether you need to mention it in the first place. Again, that's my experience, I'm good at putting on a mask. I understand it may be different for others. It seems this forum is a safe place to unmask.

x

[romantic_thi3f]

Hi Just Sara (and all)

I think this is a great thread and that it's important to be able to have these discussions. PTSD and any other mental health condition for that matter doesn't need to hide away anymore.

Anyway - these are my thoughts

Is PTSD over diagnosed?

I think to an extent yes. The problem with the DSM (Diagnostic manual) is that in a way it's open to interpretation. Flashbacks and trouble sleeping is common with PTSD, but someone could also be having trauma experiences without the PTSD. This is why when getting a diagnosis or seeing a professional always make sure that they are qualified and have experience in helping others in similar situations.

Is knowing I have PTSD helpful for my recovery?

I agree that it is. For many it can feel like a heavy weight on their shoulders and I get that, but for me a diagnosis means that - hey, I'm not alone in what I'm feeling; there's a reason for this - and most importantly; it doesn't always have to be this way. Even though there is no cure, it can be managed and people can have a really good life.

For me having a diagnosis (of mental and physical health issues) meant that I could be more proactive in finding ways to manage and get a good understanding of how it worked and affected me.

Is there a science behind PTSD?

Yes! One of the best books I've read is 'The body keeps the score' by Bessel Van Der Kolk. He's like the head poncho of trauma and PTSD and his book is incredibly thorough.

Is PTSD the new Mental Health buzz word?

Gosh, I hope not. I think Depression is very much a buzz word because I hear people say they have it even though they aren't diagnosed. Just like there is a difference between being sad for a while and depression there is a difference between having some trauma issues to deal with and PTSD.

Should PTSD from domestic trauma be called something different from that of war veterans or emergency workers? Is there a difference?

From what I've read, PTSD affects the brain in the same way regardless of whether it's war, domestic violence, car accidents etc. Everyone experiences PTSD differently even though the biology is the same. For this reason I think it should have the same diagnosis but I think it should be accepted that PTSD is not just for war veterans. It can affect anybody and doesn't discriminate.

[Just Sara]

Hey and welcome SuperSonic;

Your response is exactly what I was aiming for when I posted this thread, so thankyou for the insight. 44 years is a long time; congratulations on the recovery you've obviously worked hard for.

You wrote; 'the diagnosis of Complex PTSD has been helpful to me. It's explained a lot of my behaviours and reactions, distrust, self-medicating and paranoid thinking. Everyone's situation is unique'

You've hit the nail on the head for me and probably many others. My diagnosis caused a light bulb to be switched on in my head. It was in an instant once the words left my psychiatrists mouth. It gave me hope too, I had a name for what I was experiencing so I could get help and research a real cause, not just symptoms.

You then wrote; 'for 44 years I kept trying to 'pretend' I was normal'

Unlike you SuperS, my behaviour from PTSD 'was' my normal. I hadn't known life could be different until my breakdown 2 and 1/2 yrs ago and then my diagnosis.

I've experienced multiple trauma's which kept adding to the effects of my original trauma. Things became chronic and more complex than I could've imagined.

Thankyou for your wise and insightful words. Please stay on board BB forum and continue giving of your experience and knowledge.

Grateful...

Sara x

[Just Sara]

Thankyou RT for your knowledge and wisdom;

What a great post! You've covered all of the questions I put to readers; nice one.

I like what you've said about diagnosis being an interpretation as per the DSM; could you elaborate on this please? Many people focus on symptoms instead of a holistic approach to PTSD, my GP is one. We've had many discussions about 'labels' and her inability to connect the dots. I had to plead with her to refer me to a psychiatrist.

Science behind PTSD...As I'm a bit of a nerdy nerd, science has to be explored by me. My go-to book is; 'Waking the Tiger - Healing Trauma' by Peter A. Levine (North Atlantic Books)

In this book, (my psychologist referred) Levine investigates the human experience of trauma as an animal as well as a member of culture and society. As you've stated, the biology is identical, but responses differ.

An exert from Levine's book:

"Why are animals in the wild, though threatened routinely, rarely traumatized? By understanding the dynamics that make wild animals virtually immune to traumatic symptoms, the mystery and healing of human trauma is revealed."

Levine's insight is eye opening! By seeing ourselves as an 'organism' first, our behaviour and responses make perfect sense. This book's great for people who understand psychological and scientific concepts.

You mention depression being a buzz word; could this be from people who don't have insight or understanding of what it is, and are trying to define (or name) what's wrong with them or someone they know? We've discussed how important a diagnosis can be to people.

**If anyone reading needs information on specific issues such as PTSD, depression or anxiety, please follow the links below in the blue section**

Keep up the great posts everyone! Let's get things out in the open. I'd like to hear from people who might disagree with what's been said, or have their own ideas that could be discussed.

Sara

[Guest_9809]

Great new topic Sara, and thanks for the opportunity you have provided to express my views on the matter.

Is PTSD Over diagnosed? Cant comment on whether its over diagnosed. But I believe PTSD is often diagnosed much too early. Often before normal channels for trauma treatments are even explored. My understanding is that PTSD should not even be considered until something like 6 months or more post trauma. Because, while most people will suffer trauma symptoms for a time after a traumatic event, not everyone will go on to develop PTSD. If appropriate early intervention therapy is introduced then the likelihood is that PTSD will not even develop. I am not in favour of providing labels such as PTSD when they are not warranted.

Is PTSD diagnosis helpful for recovery? Yes, I believe so. I need answers to understand why I am the way I am and feel as I do. PTSD symptoms include intrusive thoughts, mood alterations, hypervigilance and avoidance. These symptoms cause additional distress and confusion when we fail to understand why we've seemingly lost control of our own mind and body. Sudden tears, irritability, inability to breath, erratic heart rate, constant shaking, insomnia, nightmares, memory and concentration difficulties, and emotional issues make life damned difficult. Once PTSD develops, we can't just 'get over it'. When I received my official diagnosis, many years post trauma, everything made sense, it fitted. This has enabled me to do targeted research to find ways to help overcome some of the more disabling symptoms of my long standing PTSD. It takes time and patience ... loads of it, and support from professionals to help find our own individual path to healing.

Is there a science behind PTSD? I don't know enough to comment really, but I do accept that trauma causes changes to both the brain and the body. Our cells record memories and these trauma-related neuropathways keep reactivating, causing the symptoms we continue to experience.

Is PTSD the new mental health buzz word? Gosh I hope not! Although we do seem to be hearing/reading
something in the news almost daily now about PTSD. In one way, it's a good thing that people are becoming more knowledgeable about the disorder. However I am concerned that it runs a very real risk of becoming considered almost 'normal' because of the current public exposure. That's not the message we want to get out there. As anyone with PTSD will tell you ... it is far from normal!

Taurus xx

[Guest_9809]

Ran out of space Sara, sorry.

Should PTSD from domestic trauma be called something different from that of war veterans or emergency workers? Is there a difference? It's my belief that PTSD is PTSD, and the cause is immaterial. The ongoing symptoms of the trauma is the relevant factor, as that is what needs to be treated. It isn't like other illnesses where they aim to treat the cause of the illness. That cannot be done with PTSD.

I think as a result of so much discussion around PTSD in the wider community, there seems to be a degree of elitism developing. Like my PTSD is worse than yours because **?**. It's almost like people (who really dont know) are saying that someone's PTSD is not valid because it wasn't 'earned'. We all react differently to trauma, and an experience which is traumatic to one person is not to another. Is someone who suffers PTSD as a result of emergency work more valid than mine? No, it's not. Is my PTSD, resulting from a violent rape where my life was at risk, any worse or more valid than someone who has suffered ongoing domestic violence? No, of course not! All trauma and subsequent suffering from PTSD is equally valid and real to those genuinely suffering it on a daily basis. I really dont think you can differentiate due to the cause of an individual's PTSD.

Supersonic - I totally agree with your post. And like you, I have never told family or friends of my diagnosis, and nor are any of them aware of what happened to me all those years ago. It simply is not something I wish to discuss. My psych knows, my GP has a vague idea, and people here on BB who read my thread know. Thats all. And I suspect that will always be the case. I dont wish to be judged and I dont want my story to define who I am or influence what others think of me.

Romantic - Good points you have brought up there. It sounds like our opinions are similar in most areas, although we probably express them a little differently. (-:

Sara - I know you were after someone to disagree with whats been said so far, but I can't .... sorry. Perhaps someone else can give a different perspective though? And I will be just as interested in reading their views.

Taurus xx

[Just Sara]

I was hoping you'd drop in to give your view on things Taurus; thankyou heaps.

What you've written is from the perspective of a sufferer so it's relevant, genuine and insightful. I especially liked your list of symptoms and your choice to keep info from loved ones. This is a common theme among sufferers.

One issue you raise is about how people who go thru similar trauma, don't necessarily react the same. Can we measure PTSD by symptoms from a similar event? I've read the terms; complex PTSD, chronic PTSD as well as PTSD.

Peter A Levine's book 'Waking the Tiger' from my reference above, talks about a kidnapping of teens in the US. The boys and girls were held in a cave and ranged in ages from 12 to 18. One older boy became a prominent figure encouraging others to look for a way out.

They eventually escaped; all experienced PTSD in different ways. The boy who led the group however, had less symptoms compared to everyone else. Levine states this has to do with his ability to cope better and use his time productively staying focused on finding a way out. His background was also relevant due to a happy and safe upbringing.

He still presented with PTSD symptoms, though his recovery was quicker and he responded to therapy better than most. Was this due to early intervention and support from authorities, who were being monitored by the press? Not all trauma's have this type of exposure. In other words, 'secrets' aren't the same.

Food for thought...

Sara

[A_Tech]

Hi Sarah,

This is a fantastic thread, well done! I do have a medical background, but anything I say here is purely as a PTSD sufferer.

Firstly what Taurus said about PTSD shouldn't be considered as a diagnosis until at least 6 months after the fist signs of symptoms, is absolutely correct!! From that point of view I know of a few people that have been diagnosed by their GP with PTSD within weeks of an event, only to go on to a quick recovery with some therapy and have the diagnosis reversed. For the most part though, I think GP's are pretty good at differentiating between a traumatic event and potential PTSD.

For me having a diagnosis made a huge difference. Just as SuperSonic described, it certainly helped to explain a lot of my behaviours and feelings. I was diagnosed with Complex PTSD, which I was told does differ quite a lot from PTSD. Having said that though, we still all suffer the same don't we?

The difference being that PTSD 'usually' (I'll use that word lightly) results from either a single event (such as a violent attack etc), or a series of the same event (as in living with an abusive person, military etc). In no way am I underestimating the cause for any one persons PTSD, theses are simply laymen's explanations.

Complex PTSD is generally (almost always) started from the result of some sort of childhood trauma that was never dealt with (hence the behaviour issues). Then as an adult further traumatic event/s, such as any of the usual PTSD triggers, re tigger that mind overload.

As a medical worker I've always believed that PTSD is PTSD as you said. I do not think that domestic violence or anything else should be called something different. As you said, it effects the brain in the same way regardless of how you got it. It should be treated the same by everyone.

I started a thread on PTSD for Medical and First Responders for that very reason! After my diagnosis, I looked everywhere for others like me, just to feel connected because all I could find initially was military or single event traumas. But my experience was very different even though the end result was the same!

I hope to god that PTSD is not becoming a new BUZZ word. It's not something 'cool' to have, it's debilitating at times and life changing at best.

I hope I din't get too off topic here, sorry if I did.

Donna

[Just Sara]

Hi Donna;

So very pleased to hear from you I must say. I'm out of my mind tired, but reading thru your post I thought I had to at least say a few words.

Firstly, thankyou so much for the thread dedicated to emergency workers and PTSD, and having it pinned to the section...well done.

It's great so see medical personnel on the forum too, I appreciate your background and interested in your perspective.

One of the frustrations of being on BB is reading confusing comments from people just diagnosed, or even those who've been living with PTSD for many yrs or decades. Very few people ask; 'What is PTSD?'

I've read thru BB's links and they do a great job introducing PTSD to the reader. I'm more into the science behind the behaviour/responses/symptoms as well as specifics of individual journeys.

You mention complex PTSD being (mostly) trauma from childhood; this area interests me because there's so many (undiagnosed) who could benefit from information. I don't mean a diagnosis, I mean having the relief I had when I found understanding for who I'd become. It doesn't mean everyone has PTSD, it's a helping hand for those who've questioned themselves about why they feel childlike when confronting authority figures or the opposite sex for instance.

As I've mentioned, Peter Levine's book demonstrates how PTSD is an unnatural response to trauma in the animal kingdom. Humans are the only species to have it (apart from domesticated animals)

Sigh...we're the only species to hunt, kill and rape our own kind. And when that's from within the safety and sanctity of our home/family?

Anyway, whew...I'm really knackered. I hope I've made sense at this ungodly hour.

I hope to hear back from you Donna; lovely chatting.

Sara