Understanding PTSD: Symptoms, Support, and Steps Toward Healing

Some experiences change us. Maybe it was something sudden like an accident or a loss, or maybe it was something that happened over time and left you feeling unsafe or on edge. If you’ve been through something hard and find yourself struggling long after it’s over, you’re not alone. What you might be feeling could be post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.

Let’s talk about what that really means, what signs to look for, and what you can do about it.

What Is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that may arise when a person goes through a traumatic event. That could be anything from military combat to a car crash, childhood abuse, or witnessing something deeply disturbing. It’s not about how “bad” the event was on paper. It’s about how it affected you personally.

Some people feel the effects of trauma right away. Others don’t notice anything until weeks, months, or even years later.

Signs and Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD can show up in different ways. Some people have nightmares or flashbacks that make them relive the incident. Others go out of their way to avoid anything that reminds them of what happened. Some feel constantly on edge, like they’re waiting for the next bad thing to happen. Others feel numb or disconnected from people around them.

Here are some common signs:

• Trouble sleeping or relaxing
• Sudden anger or irritability
• Feeling jumpy or easily startled
• Avoiding certain people, places, or situations
• Sadness, guilt, or shame
• Trouble concentrating
• Feeling detached or distant from others
• Reliving the trauma through thoughts or dreams

These symptoms can be confusing and frustrating. You might even wonder why you can’t “just move on.” But PTSD is not about willpower. It concerns how stress and fear affect your body and brain.

Finding Support for PTSD That Fits

PTSD is treatable. There are people who understand what you're going through and know how to help.

At Advent Counseling, we see the person first, not just the diagnosis. We take time to get to know you, to hear your story, and to walk alongside you as you find your way forward. Therapy gives you a safe space to talk, process, and learn tools that help you feel more in control again.

Support doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some people want to work one-on-one with a therapist. Others may benefit from group support or tools they can use at home. What matters most is finding something that feels safe and helpful to you.

Small Steps That Make a Big Difference

Even small changes can help you start feeling better. Try the following gentle ways:

• Practice breathing: Slowing your breath can help calm your nervous system when you feel overwhelmed.
• Stick to a routine: Having a basic rhythm to your day, meals, sleep, movement, can help your body feel more stable.
• Notice what helps: Pay attention to moments when you feel calm or connected. What were you doing? Who were you with? Build more of that into your life.
• Talk to someone: This could be a therapist, a trusted friend, a family member, or a pastor. You shouldn't be lugging it all alone.

Healing isn’t quick, and it’s not always neat. But it is possible. Many people who once felt stuck or broken because of PTSD have found peace, strength, and joy again. You can too.

At Advent Counseling, we’re here to help you feel safe again in your body, in your thoughts, and in your everyday life. We’re here to listen. And we’ll meet you wherever you are in your healing journey.