Living with PTSD in Bucks & Montgomery Counties

June marks PTSD Awareness month, a time dedicated to raise awareness surrounding post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

This month focuses on educating the public about PTSD, its symptoms, and how to access treatment and support. At Griswold Home Care for Bucks and Montgomery Counties, we are committed to providing compassionate care to individuals affected by PTSD, including Veterans and other adults. Explore the various types of PTSD, recognize common symptoms, and discover how Griswold can assist individuals in Willow Grove, Bryn Mawr, Conshohocken, and the surrounding areas.

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that can develop after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Trauma can include events that threaten your sense of safety, such as accidents, natural disasters, or combat. It is important to recognize that PTSD can develop after learning that a traumatic event happened to a loved one. There are a few types of PTSD to be aware about, as they can vary.

Types of PTSD

There are multiple types of PTSD, all ranging from short to long-term.

• Acute Stress Disorder: A short-term mental health condition that can occur within the first month after experiencing a traumatic event.
• Chronic PTSD: A long-term mental health condition that persists for longer than three months.
• Delayed Onset PTSD: A long-term mental health condition in which symptoms may not appear until years after the traumatic event.
• Complex PTSD (CPTSD): A long-term mental health condition that can develop if you experience chronic trauma.

Symptoms

PTSD symptoms can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While symptoms often appear shortly after an incident, they may also emerge months or even years later. Over time, the severity of PTSD symptoms can fluctuate, where stress potentially triggers intensity. Symptoms commonly include:

• Reliving a traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares
• Unwanted, distressing memories of a traumatic event
• Being easily startled or frightened
• Feeling detached from family and friends
• Trouble sleeping and concentrating.

Treatment

A healthcare professional will likely diagnose PSTD by performing a physical exam and mental health evaluation. Treatment for PTSD is essential and can help individuals regain control over their lives. One of the main treatments is talk therapy, also known as psychotherapy. Some types of psychotherapy include:

• Exposure Therapy: Helps individuals face situations and memories they find frightening in a controlled manner.
• Cognitive Therapy: Address negative thought patterns and behaviors to reduce the risk of traumatic events recurring.

Local Resources

NAMI Family Support Group: is a peer-led gathering for family members, Caregivers and loved ones of individuals living with a mental health condition. Gain available insights from both the challenges and success of your peers. To learn more about each group click below.

Support: How can Griswold Help?

Dealing with PTSD can be extremely challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Griswold Home Care for Bucks and Montgomery Counties offers a range of services to support individuals with PTSD:

• In-Home Care: Our Caregivers provide personalized care in the comfort of your home, assisting with daily activities and offering companionship.
• Veteran Services: We assist Veterans in accessing VA benefits and connecting with veteran-specific support groups and rehab facilities.

If you are a Veteran and unaware of the VA benefits you may be eligible for, reach out to our Griswold staff. We can assist you on how to access the right information and ensure your loved ones receive the necessary benefits. Our office may assist you with the following:

• Obtaining VA medical benefits
• Registering for VA benefits that will pay for personal care
• Identifying veteran-specific support groups and rehab facilities
• Accessing veteran mental health support services
• Providing Care Professionals and in-home care utilizing VA benefits

PTSD affects many individuals in our community, and it’s important to raise awareness and provide support. At Griswold Home Care for Bucks and Montgomery Counties, we are here to help you, or a loved one, navigate the challenges of PTSD. If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out to us or the local resources mentioned above. Together, we can work towards healing and support!