PTSD can have varying effects on relationships depending on the trigger, manifestation, and understanding of both parties. Common effects include emotional detachment, addiction, and anger, leading to frustration and anxiety. However, working together to resolve the issue can strengthen the relationship.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) almost always puts stress on a relationship, but the exact effects of PTSD on relationships depend on many different variables. For example, PTSD can be caused by a number of different events and can also manifest itself in different ways. The qualities of the relationship and the understanding that both parties possess regarding the difficulties of living with PTSD can also determine how this disorder affects relationships. PTSD can cause relationships to dissolve, but with significant effort and understanding, the effects of PTSD on relationships can be minimized and controlled.
One of the most important things to understand when evaluating the effects of PTSD on relationships is that the event that triggered PTSD can determine its effects in certain situations. PTSD from rape, for example, can make sexual intercourse very difficult. People with PTSD after returning from war may be violent towards their partners or fearful for reasons they can’t explain. Proper diagnosis of this disorder can help determine how to minimize the effects before they become dangerous.
Some of the common effects of PTSD on relationships include emotional detachment, addiction, and anger. These can make life very difficult for both partners, leading to further frustration and anxiety. In family relationships, children of people with PTSD may not be able to figure out why the parent is behaving the way they do. Taking a step back from the situation and making sure all parties are educated about the disorder can help alleviate some of these effects.
In some cases, PTSD can cause a person to end relationships completely without warning. In these cases, the other people in the relationship may not even know what caused the relationship to end. When PTSD causes a person to withdraw, there is no support group or people who will notice the person’s serious need for help. This can be very dangerous for both the sufferer and their loved ones, although in some cases separation can provide the sufferer with the space they need to find inner peace.
Although the effects of PTSD on relationships are almost always negative, some people find that working together to resolve a serious health problem ultimately brings people together. Working through PTSD can be difficult, but doing so shows great commitment to the relationship and can solidify an emotional bond. Understanding what PTSD is can help both partners reduce the amount of guilt and anxiety in the relationship, which can help prevent the relationship from dissolving.
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