How do trauma & PTSD symptoms challenge relationships?
Sleep Disturbances:
Insomnia, nightmares, or panic attacks.
Irritability:
Anger outbursts, hyper-vigilance, exaggerated startle response.
Avoidance:
Decreased interest in activities or fear of leaving home.
Poor problem solving skills:
Silence, rage or hostile exits rather than problem solving and talking out issues. Often makes a "mountain out of a mole hill" because of confusion between the past and present.
Denying:
Minimizing, or rationalizing the impact the symptoms are having on the relationship.
Confusion and anger when confronted with evidence that the relationship is in danger.
Mental health problems:
Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, shame, depression, anxiety, guilt, fear, rage and fear of being touched, losing time and confusion.
Behavioral problems:
Problems in relationships; sexual dysfunction; poor work history; problems with the law; physical or verbal abuse of children and partners.
Addictive behaviors:
Substance abuse; eating disorders; gambling; compulsive spending; compulsive saving; sexual promiscuity or sexual anorexia, internet porn and high risk behaviors.
Suicidal and Homicidal ideation or attempts:
Symptoms may include: stress, depression, anxiety or panic, shame or guilt, brooding or worrying, trouble sleeping, not caring anymore, fears, nightmares, bad temper, history of violence, poor self-image, relationship problems.
