General Is PTSD Permanent?

[Jen]

Hi Anthony I have seen you mention that ptsd is permanent?
So we ( spouses) are stuck with it?
So am I right that there is no cure just learning to live with it and control it for the sufferers?
Thanks Jen

 

[Deleted member 3]

Yes Jen, unfortunately it is a permanent illness. Its only the management of it that makes the difference and that relies on the motivation of the individual with PTSD. As for the support person, I guess it becomes a personal decision as to whether you continue to support or not. Again it depends on whether the person with PTSD is actively managing the symptoms or simply wallowing in self pity. Having said that, it also requires some management from the partners........even just the little things like timing when to go shopping together, all of that kind of stuff.

 

[anthony]

Yep Jen, it is permanent. You have to think of PTSD uniquely from the trauma that caused it, because that is what it is, a unique entity once formed.

Trauma causes PTSD. Trauma can be healed, thus just leaving PTSD. If stress and exposures are not managed, PTSD returns not from existing trauma's or stressors, but the current one's. What defines recovery though is one's eagerness and management techniques. Once you heal from trauma, you must then manage PTSD.

 

[Jaynea]

Hi Jen...I know what you mean about being stuck with it...not to mention the changes in the person you love. Timing Shopping is one thing. It also means we don't make many long term plans. Our social life is curtailed, by necessity ...But you have to fight for yourself too. don't get lost in the PTSD...I walk alot when I need to get away, I have my friends and we go away for girl only weekends and have lunch every Saturday. My job is also an outlet for me. Keep a sense of who you are and what you need. If you don't feel resentful and cheated you will both be happier...I think that was "an old wife's tale"..well I'm an old wife.....

 

[Jen]

Thanks for your reply guys. Jaynea I love it! I am an old wife too we have been married 25 years soon ( I really dont know how) I know what you mean about long term plans its only a disappointment when you plan something only to have him say he doesnt feel like doing it at the last minute that makes me so cranky!
My time out is a game of golf with the girls and going to work to get away from the doom and gloom sitting around the house.
Jen

 

[jods]

Hi Jen
I went to hubbys shrink appt with him today & pretty much asked him how many different versions of my hubby am I going to see until he "finds" his new "normal".
The answer I got was, I'm not sure, it depends on how he deals with this exposure therapy.
So in a nutshell, I came to the conclusion that depending on how much crap you're willing to deal with while they are unwell will depend on how we choose to deal with living with them.
I do believe that it is VERY important for us to also be seeking some type of help for ourselves to help us while we're on this ride. As we all know as much as it is hard for them to have PTSD, it's just as bloody hard living with it too.

 

[trisha]

so what you guys are saying is that PTSD is a long term disability? Does any one kmow if it would be covered under social security disability benefits?

Any info would be appreciated, just diagnosed and scared as hell............



Trisha

 

[jods]

Hi Trisha
Welcome aboard! I don't really know about the benefits stuff as yet. We are in Aust & hubby is still on the workcover side of things. Sorry I can't be more helpful.

 

[Jaynea]

Hi Trish...My husband has PTSD but other medical problems as well. He gets disability for it. You should check into it...We're in NY so things might be different in other places. Right now we are planning a vacation. Everything has been paid for and I laid out all the plans....and I have my fingers crossed that he is able to go. A friend of mine's husband ran off the plane just as they were getting ready to close the door because he couldn't face it.
I staying optimistic.....

 

[jods]

Hi Jaynea
Good luck with your holiday. Hope it all goes well!

 

[anthony]

Trish,

In Australia PTSD is classed as a disability, most of the USA also, UK is, Canada I don't think is because from what those who live their say, the medical and support system sucks. Asia, not sure also. More info can be read in the thread, [DLMURL="http://www.ptsdforum.org/thread61.html"]is PTSD a disability[/DLMURL].

 

[miki1981]

I was doing a web search to see of PTSD was listed as a permanent disability for purposes of disability benefits. I was surprised to see so many people say it is a permanent condition in terms of how long it actually affects your life. I am a war veteran an have known and worked beside many other war veterans and even some rape and assault victims. PTSD does not have to be permanent. Yes, trauma has a way of lingering and I have a lot of friends I wouldn't sneak up on but if treated properly it can be resolved. The defensive responses and fear can all go away. It may take a lot of time and many people are not open to the pain it takes to accomplish this but there are many good counselling and support groups out there that can help.

If any of you are speaking of soldiers you can look into warriors journey home for some guidance. They have actually taken it upon themselves to guide many Vietnam vets on tours back to Vietnam! What a journey that is! and what closure! Many feel the return of their very soul! Personally I was guided in my churches discipleship and through many tears and many years I have only a few symptoms left of my ordeals. I was in training to be a clinical counselor and have since changed over to more of a physical therapy program due to the lack of results from "modern" counseling methods. Keep looking for yourself and I hope you find your way to peace for you and your loved ones because it is out there.