BellaOnline Forums News and Politics Veterans Primary Vs. Secondary PTSD

It seems that loved ones can exhibit symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder when exposed to someone with PTSD.

What is it about our brains wiring that might make us respond this way?

This article on "Secondary PTSD" can give you some background information.
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Jeff,

I found this article interesting, because so many women experience PTSD from being sexually molested - and if they are able to marry or have a relationship, then their spouse or boyfriend goes through the same type of "tiptoeing" behavior that you described.

Escept in these cases it is usually terror, hysterics, or a deep depression that is brought on rather than the rages (though that occasionally happens, too.)



I think it is simply caring for our loved ones - and thinking we are doing our best by trying NOT to put anymore pressure on them. But we can only take so much pressure oursleves. Everyone needs a venting outlet somewhere.

You're right on many accounts. PTSD is not restricted to returning military veterans from combat.

Somehow, someway our brains respond in certain ways to violent, aggressive, and negative situations.

A recent newsweek article talks about how a chemical released during these stressful situations keeps traumatic memories in the forefront of our brains. They're now creating and testing drugs that block this chemical, and hopefully PTSD reactions.

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As someone who lives with someone who have PTSD from combat related stress, let me add some insight. Some days it is absolutely horrible. my husband has returned from Iraq over four years ago and for four years I have walked on eggshells around him in fear of getting yelled at while everyone in our lives praises him for being a war hero and an all around great guy. which he is. don't get me wrong. I love my husband. I have learned to live with his PTSD as if it is another person. the confusing thing about the whole thing is that what used to always set him off in the past, sometimes doesnt now. So, I wait when those situations occur for the reaction, only it never comes. Then it is something completely different that sets him off. Like someone cutting him off in the grocery store. Suddenly, it becomes my fault because I am the only one he can take it out on. Who else is he going to take it out on? The old man that just cut him off? the kids? himself? Nope, it is me.

PTSD is the real deal. If only the Army would recognize that and give us Army wives training on how to deal with our "new" husbands.