Understanding The Causes And Risk Factors For Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Lack Of Support System

When recovering from any mental illness, a strong support system is one of the most vital components. With PTSD, it's even more important. Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder need a support system to show them they are safe and have people they can rely on. The support system also gives them a place to go when they experience symptoms, which can increase feelings of being safe. Strong familial relationships and friendships are vital to combating post-traumatic stress disorder, particularly when it appears alongside other mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, depression, or substance use issues. A lack of support system only increases an individual's stress. If an individual's friends and family aren't supportive, they may feel driven to hide their symptoms and compartmentalize further. This doesn't mean the symptoms are gone, only that they aren't being expressed. Internalizing symptoms instead of expressing them can heighten an individual's risk of suicide. Additionally, a lack of support following trauma can also increase an individual's risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorder in the first place.

Keep reading to uncover more risk factors and causes associated with post-traumatic stress disorder now.