The Tucson Shootings and PTSD; Symptoms and Triggers

Although the recent shootings in Tucson involving Gabrielle Giffords and 19 other victims have affected everyone in this country, this can be an especially difficult time for those suffering with PTSD. Some people are under the assumption that if you have PTSD because of one particular trauma, such as serious car accident, domestic violence, or any other particular trauma, that those specific triggers are the only thing you need to worry about. If only that was true. Unfortunately when you suffer from PTSD, any type of major tragedy, and sometimes even a minor event not having anything to do with the original trauma can trigger a reaction.

I myself am a retired counselor, but also suffer from PTSD. I am most fortunate to control the symptoms, and triggers very well without medication. However, the thing here to remember is, I have a rich tool box of knowledge on how to handle the symptoms and triggers when they happen, which a lot of people don't, unless they have gotten some really good counseling, and have learned techniques to handle what comes their way.

Even with all the knowledge and techniques of trigger control I have learned,when a major tragedy such as 9/11 or the recent shootings in Tucson happen, things can get difficult at times, and I need to work a little harder at it. It can be excruciating for those who don't even know if they suffer from PTSD, or those who have not had the counseling they need to help get through a very difficult time.

To people with PTSD a national tragedy, especially those involving violence can re-traumatize the individual. In essence it can cause feelings and thoughts that are a horrible reminder of the original trauma they experienced. Some typical symptoms that may occur is extreme sadness, heightened anger, paranoia, heightened startle response, intense fear, inability to function, inability to focus, a heightened sense of doom about the future and other symptoms as well, depending on the individual.

The most important thing you can do is, don't be afraid to seek help with a qualified counselor. Don't be afraid to talk to people in your life that you trust, and understand about your original trauma. Don't talk to people that may minimize your feelings, or try to make you feel stupid for feeling the way that you do. PTSD is a real disorder, and what you're feeling is normal in conjunction with what trauma or traumas you have experienced. There is hope and you can learn how to better deal with the triggers and symptoms in your life, and make life a lot more comfortable and happy. Will the triggers ever stop? Maybe and maybe not, it's all an individual thing. However, learning how to deal with the triggers better, helps to minimize the negative feelings and symptoms, and helps you to cope better with your life. Don't ever hesitate to get the help you need to live a better quality of life.