By Mochabako Kgadima
According to the World Health Association around 70% of people globally will experience a potentially traumatic event during their lifetime , But only a minority (5.6%) will go on to develop PTSD. An estimated 3.9% of the world population has experienced PTSD at some point in their lives.
Mental health awareness month being the month to talk more about everything mental health to raise awareness, let’s talk about trauma: is the lasting emotional response that often results from living through a distressing event. Experiencing a traumatic event can harm a person’s sense of safety, sense of self, and ability to regulate emotions and navigate relationships. Long after the traumatic event occurs, people with trauma can often feel shame, helplessness, powerlessness and intense fear.
SYMPTOMS AND PATTERNS:
Re-experiencing symptoms-People with PTSD have repeated and unwanted recollections of the traumatic event(s), which make them feel as if the event(s) is happening all over again.
Avoidance symptoms-People with PTSD avoid situations, activities, thoughts or memories that remind them of the traumatic event(s). They may even avoid talking about the event(s) with their family or health care providers.
Hyperarousal symptoms-People with PTSD may experience a heightened sense of danger, even when they are not actually at risk.
People with PTSD may also have depressive disorder, anxiety disorders and substance use disorders as well as suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
CONTRIBUTING FACTORS:
PTSD results from interacting social, psychological and biological factors. Anyone can experience PTSD after a potentially traumatic event, but people who have previously experienced traumatic events are more susceptible. The nature of the event experienced can also affect the chances of developing PTSD. Receiving social support following potentially traumatic events can reduce the risk for PTSD.
SELF-CARE:
-Continue normal daily routines as far as possible;
-Connect with and talk to trusted people about what happened but only when the person feels ready to do so;
-Avoid or cut down on alcohol and illicit drugs that can make symptoms worse;
-Exercise regularly, even if it’s just a short walk;
-Maintain or develop healthy sleeping habits; and
-Learn stress management, which may include breathing techniques and progressive muscle relaxation.
TREATMENT:
Seek professional help. Visit the University of Limpopo’s Centre for Student Counselling & Development (D Block).
For appointments Contacts: Toll-free: 0800127565
Landline: 015 268-2437
After hours: 015 268 6123
