GETTING HELP

If you have already been diagnosed as having PTSD then a structure of help should be in place. However, this depends on the understanding of PTSD by the health professionals you are involved with.

1:         Your GP

The first person most of us who exhibit symptoms of PTSD will have contact with is our GP.

This can be a difficult ‘first move’ for those experiencing PTSD. The thought of delving deep into ourselves and having to relive events as we attempt to explain the symptoms and explain what happened can be a very painful experience. But this is a VERY NECESSARY thing that has to be done to help you cope.

Don’t be embarrassed about approaching your GP. They are health professionals and they are there to assist us in overcoming problems. Remember that anything you say to your GP about what has happened to you and the way you feel is confidential.

If you feel you can not approach your GP to discuss the way you feel then see another GP (preferably in the same practice). Sometimes it is easier to explain to a stranger, or someone who is not so involved in our lives.

Don’t be afraid of ‘breaking-down’ in front of the GP.  If you do then it is only a few moments which will help you with the rest of your life.

Keep in mind that your doctor may not know about the emotional or psychological after-effects of trauma or about the many associated medical problems. You can help your doctor understand you and plan your treatment better by sharing crucial information about yourself.

If you can, you should relay:

• Some information about any event you think is contributing to the way you feel. Just a general overview is fine, but do give information about when and where it happened (if you know).

• Try and explain information concerning any physical symptoms or abnormalities you have noticed. For example ‘I feel faint in public places’, ‘I have pains in my chest’, ‘I have trouble sleeping’ etc.

• Try and explain how you feel emotionally. For example ‘I feel low all of the time’, ‘I get flashbacks of what happened’, ‘I feel afraid in certain situations’ etc.

• Try and explain how you think your life is affected now. For example ‘I am having problems with close relationships’, ‘I get angry now’, ‘I can’t seem to keep my life together’ etc.

GPs are more aware of PTSD that they were a few years ago, so your GP should refer you to a practice or external mental health nurse or another professional. In general, the GP will wait for the outcome of the referral before any other action or attempt at any form of treatment is made.

YOU WILL HAVE MADE THE FIRST AND MOST DIFFICULT STEP.

You should keep in mind that the process may differ within practices and health trusts. Your GP should explain this to you, although don’t worry if you do not remember any details. Just make sure you WRITE DOWN any appointments that are made.

MAKE SURE YOU KEEP APPOINTMENTS!

It can be very easy not to go because you don’t feel like it for whatever reason. But it is important you maintain your input in helping yourself.

To be continued...