ASK FOR HELP: Ask for help when you perceive your life is starting to spin out of control. These are common symptoms at the onset of PTSD and will most likely the intensity of the symptoms will increase: Depression, Anxiety, Fear, Racing Thoughts, Anger, Guilt, Regrets, and Insomnia. Write down a list of all the people or organizations who you can contact or reach out to quickly during your weakest times or when you consider it appropriate. There should be no thinking or hesitation about who or where to go or call when you absolutely need help. It can be friends, relatives, suicide prevention hotlines, hospital, trusted superiors, clergy, and mental health. A good plan is a well thought out plan.

People want to help you. There is no shame in asking for it. Regrettably many people afflicted with PTSD experience self-made or perceived obstacles which impede asking for help. I will delve into reasons why people are often reticent to seek help. Many people are afraid of losing their jobs or careers and thus the ability to support their families. This is a natural feeling because the endeavor to provide for the family is great. Some are reluctant to show their “Weakness” to their family and friends for the fear of being ostracized. The never quit attitude we are taught as warriors is often an impediment to seeking help as well. People often believe they are inherently strong enough to fix themselves, but I noticed many who embarked on this tack often experienced lives spiraling out of control because in all reality they absolutely needed help. Sometimes people cannot mentally connect the dots and have little to no confidence life will become less wearisome even after they seek help.

People who suffer with PTSD must be forewarned sometimes the consequences of not asking for help results in people committing mistakes that are not expected to be made. Unfortunately, some of the mistakes can be substantial life changers for the worse. “Normal” people have the capability to rationalize away depression, anxiety, guilt, anger, reoccurring thoughts, and regrets. However, people with PTSD often do not have that ability and the powerful symptoms control the people thus reality becomes distorted and skewed.

Two worlds will exist: The person’s perception of their world vs the real world. This is hugely problematic because a person with PTSD can perceive the truths of their world which are actually false and incompatible with the real world. The deception will make people think they are acting rationally in society, but in all actuality, they are breaking relationships, societal norms, laws, and taking unnecessary risks. That is the danger. Be aware this distortion also applies to thinking in regard to suicidal ideations as well. Some people will rationalize committing suicide is the only way to stop the suffering, but they are wrong. Committing suicide guarantees healing will never take place. Ask for help before you crash and burn. Before your life is altered to the point there is nothing materially left to salvage. Do what is right.

Reach out! You are not alone. And I’m glad you’re here. #BUDDYCHECK22