WHAT IS PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a life-threatening or deeply distressing event. While commonly associated with combat veterans and first responders, it can affect anyone who has experienced trauma such as accidents, abuse, disasters, or violence.
Understanding the Causes Trauma impacts the brain’s ability to process and store memory. In high-stress moments, our “fight, flight, or freeze” response activates. PTSD develops when the brain remains stuck in this heightened or distressed state long after the threat has passed. The result is ongoing distress, flashbacks, avoidance, or emotional numbness.
Common Symptoms:
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Re-experiencing: Flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive thoughts
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Avoidance: Steering clear of trauma reminders
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Negative changes in thinking or mood: Guilt, shame, disconnection, hopelessness
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Hyperarousal: Easily startled, angry outbursts, trouble sleeping
Symptoms often present differently in veterans and first responders, sometimes masked by high-functioning behavior or a tough exterior.
Treatment and Recovery This condition is highly treatable. With proper support, healing is achievable. Recovery often involves therapy (such as CBT, EMDR, or group work), peer support, faith-based programs, or a combination of these methods.
You Are Not Broken—You Are Human If you’re recognizing symptoms in yourself or someone you love, remember: PTSD is not a weakness. It’s a wound. And wounds can heal with care, time, and the right tools.
Guardian Community is here to offer compassionate support for your recovery journey. Please reach out and join our program if you or a family member need immediate help. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Alex Beaverson, VP Guardian Renewal Project
