WRAP
June is recognized as PTSD awareness month, a time dedicated to increasing understanding and support for those affected by Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, impacting individuals’ thoughts, emotions, and daily lives. This month serves as a vital reminder to break the silence and stigma surrounding trauma and mental health, promote early intervention, and encourage conversations. By raising awareness, we can foster empathy, improve access to care, and support healing and resilience in our communities.
One of the most overlooked sources of trauma is domestic violence-a pattern of abusive behavior in a relationship that is used to gain or maintain power and control over an intimate partner. Survivors of domestic violence often experience repeated emotional, physical, and psychological trauma, making them particularly vulnerable to developing PTSD.
The symptoms of PTSD can manifest as flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, emotional numbness, and hypervigilance. For survivors of domestic violence, these symptoms may be triggered by reminders of the abuse, such as raised voices, certain smells, or particular environments. This constant state of alertness can make it difficult to trust others, feel safe, or maintain healthy relationships.
PTSD becomes complex PTSD or C-PTSD when a person is exposed to prolonged, repeated, or multiple forms of trauma-especially during early development, or over an extended period of time. This often includes situations where the individual feels trapped or powerless, such as chronic childhood abuse or neglect, domestic violence, human trafficking, or living in a war zone. Unlike standard PTSD, which may result from a single traumatic event, C-PTSD involves not only the core symptoms of PTSD (like flashbacks, avoidance, and hyperarousal) but also additional challenges such as difficulties with emotional regulation, a persistent negative self-image, and trouble forming healthy relationships. Complex PTSD often requires longer-term, traumainformed care to address the deeper and more layered impacts of sustained trauma.
When PTSD is not properly addressed or treated, it can have serious and lasting effects. Unintervened PTSD often leads to worsening symptoms and can contribute to physical health issues like sleep disturbances, cardiovascular problems, and weakened immune function. In severe cases, untreated PTSD increases the risk of self-harm or suicide. Early intervention is essential to prevent these long-term consequences and to support recovery and quality of life.
Women are disproportionately affected, but anyone, regardless of gender, age, or background, can experience both domestic violence and its psychological aftermath. Children who witness domestic violence are also at high risk for PTSD, and the trauma can impact their development, behavior, and mental health well into adulthood.
Healing from PTSD caused by domestic violence requires a traumainformed approach. This can include therapy, support groups, and in some cases medication. Safe and supportive environments are crucial for recovery. Trauma-informed care recognizes the complex effects of abuse and centers the survivors’ needs, choices, and empowerment in the healing process.
Understanding the link between domestic violence and PTSD is critical to supporting survivors and breaking the cycles of trauma. As PTSD Awareness month comes to a close, let us carry forward the understanding, compassion, and commitment fostered as we move forward. PTSD does not end on a calendar date, it is a daily reality for many individuals. By continuing to educate, uplift survivors, and advocating for accessible, trauma informed care, we can break the stigma and build a world where healing is possible for everyone. Awareness is just the beginning, action and empathy must follow.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or is in need of support group services please reach out to WRAP at 507-532-9532 or call the 24-hour crisis line at 1-800-639-2350.
