What PTSD Really Looks Like: How to Support a Loved One with PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) affects millions of people across the U.S.—not just veterans, but also survivors of abuse, accidents, natural disasters, and systemic trauma. This PTSD Awareness Day,Mental Wellness Center wants to raise awareness about what PTSD really looks like, and how you can be a supportive friend, partner, or family member to someone navigating life after trauma.

What Is PTSD—And Who Does It Affect?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It affects approximately 13 million Americans every year, according to the National Center for PTSD.

• Survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, or child abuse
• Refugees and victims of systemic violence
• People who’ve experienced serious accidents or medical trauma
• First responders, healthcare workers, and social workers
• Individuals from marginalized communities exposed to racial trauma

Common Symptoms of PTSD

• Intrusive thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks
• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
• Hypervigilance or being easily startled
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Emotional numbness or detachment from loved ones
• Irritability, shame, or anger

How to Support Someone Living with PTSD

Being present for someone with PTSD can be deeply meaningful—but it can also be confusing or overwhelming if you don’t know what to expect. Here are actionable ways to help:

1. Learn About PTSD
   • Understanding what PTSD is (and isn’t) helps reduce stigma and shows your loved one that you take their experience seriously. Avoid assuming you know what they’re going through.
   • Learn more about trauma-informed care at Mental Wellness Center
2. Validate Their Experience
   • Let them know you believe them. Simple phrases like “That sounds incredibly difficult” or “I’m here for you” can go a long way. Avoid minimizing their feelings or giving unsolicited advice.
3. Be Patient with Triggers
   • Triggers can be unpredictable and may seem “small” to outsiders. Respect your loved one’s boundaries, even if you don’t fully understand them.
4. Offer Consistent Support
   • You don’t have to fix anything. Just being present—checking in, helping with daily tasks, or sitting quietly together—can help reduce isolation and promote healing.
5. Encourage Professional Help (Gently)
   • If they’re open to it, suggest they speak to a trauma-informed therapist. Offer to help research providers or attend a session with them if they’re nervous.
   • Explore trauma-informed therapy in Santa Barbara

Local PTSD and Trauma Support Resources in Santa Barbara

1. Mental Wellness Center
   • Trauma-informed care, therapy referrals, and peer support
   • https://mentalwellnesscenter.org
   • (805) 884-8440
2. Cottage Health Outpatient Behavioral Services
   • Services for PTSD, anxiety, and mood disorders
   • https://www.cottagehealth.org/services/behavioral-health/outpatient-care/
   • (805) 569-8339
3. CALM – Trauma-Informed Counseling for Families
   • Support for children and parents experiencing trauma
   • https://calm4kids.org
   • (805) 965-2376

National PTSD Resources

1. National Center for PTSD (VA)
   • Research-based information for both civilians and veterans
   • https://www.ptsd.va.gov
2. NAMI PTSD Support Resources
   • https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Mental-Health-Conditions/PTSD
   • Helpline: 1-800-950-NAMI (6264)
3. SAMHSA’s National Helpline
   • 24/7 referral service
   • 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
   • https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

Healing Takes Time—But No One Has to Do It Alone

PTSD isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a response to surviving something deeply painful—and healing is possible. If you or someone you love is struggling, reach out. There is help, and there is hope.

Contact Mental Wellness Center for trauma-informed support