Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a very real psychological condition that manifests itself in many different ways. It is not something that the person has any control over and can affect every aspect of their life. If someone you love is suffering from this condition, it is very important they receive medical help and counseling to work towards a sense of balance to be able to deal with the way they feel. It is also important that the family members attend counseling. Here are just a few reasons it is important and how it can help.

Understanding

When the family attends counseling, they will gain an understanding of the disorder. This will help them be able to see when the patient is having a bad day so they can help them through a crisis. It keeps the family from placing blame and from becoming too frustrated with the situation. It will also help them understand what type of things can trigger an episode.

Support

Knowing that the people they love will be there for them can be a big deal. Sometimes the stress and pressure take over the patient and having people around to support them and accept them can make things better. The patient will also know that their loved ones will not let anything bad happen and will get them to a medical facility if it is needed.

Coping

PTSD does affect the whole family and it can create stress and frustration in the people who are close to the patient. When the family attends PTS counseling they learn how to cope with their feelings about the situation and towards the patient. They learn that the frustration can be normal and they do not need to feel guilty about the way they feel. It gives them a place to vent and to be understood too. This will enable everyone involved including the patient, to handle things better. The family will also discover ways to make sure that the patient is cared for properly when they need a break and have to get away for a while.

When PTSD is part of your life, for whatever reason, talk with your primary care physician and ask for a referral to a counselor who can help the entire family. While the disorder may never be "cured," with proper help and guidance everyone can learn to manage things and go on with as normal a life as possible. Contact professionals such as Counseling and Art Therapy Seattle to learn more.