Q. Isn't PTSD Only for Soldiers?

A. No, it can happen to civilians too, even widows. Most people understand how Post Traumatic Stress Disorder might arise from traumatic combat and experiences that soldiers go through, but civilians who've survived torture, car accidents, rapes, and other unthinkable events are also at risk. I know widows who've been diagnosed with it after their husband died so I think it's something we should all be aware of.

Life isn't always safe. Death isn't always peaceful. According to the book, "Wounded Spirits - A Biblical Approach to Dealing with the Effects of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder," some of the symptoms of  PTSD include

• suicidal tendencies
• fear, depression, sleeplessness and anxiety
• guilt and survivor's guilt
• anger and irritability
• nightmares and flashbacks
• avoidance of conflict
• apathy
• and a large array of other symptoms. 

Many of these symptoms accompany grief, so don't be alarmed if you've experienced some of them--it doesn't mean you have it.  It doesn't mean you don't though. Do seek help for things like suicidal tendencies, depression, panic attacks, nightmares and flashbacks. Only a qualified clinician can diagnose what you're going through and this little blog post is not a substitute for medical advice.

There's hope, though. By its very name, PTS "Disorder" means that "things are out of order." It's nothing to be ashamed of. We're human, trauma should affect us, it's not a stroll through rose gardens as if nothing ever happened. The good news is that God is an expert at putting life back in order.

For information and help on PTSD from a Biblical approach, click here for an excerpt from the book, "Wounded Spirits." I attended a seminar on it recently and have 2 extra copies free to the first two people who ask. Just email me today at WCplace@gmail.com and include your mailing address.

UPDATE:  I'm sorry but the book requests have been quickly filled! A huge interest and a huge need! The revised edition seen here is available for purchase for $6.95 plus shipping, just click on this link. (If it's not working on your phone or email, click the title to this post to take you directly to the blog.)

Do you think you might have PTSD? Don't suffer in silence. Chat with the people at Wounded Spirits blog or your doctor, pastor or therapist.