Sensitivity and awareness of both our words and actions are key.
Naturally, you might not know what’s right or wrong to say or do.
Compassion is the key to creating an environment where the person feels safe and supported.
Verywell Mind / Stocksy
The 10 Worst Things to Say to Someone with PTSD
Every person with PTSD is different.
What might be acceptable to one person may be hurtful or harmful to another.
This comment dismisses theirtraumaand implies that their suffering is trivial or should be easily overcome.
PTSD isnt something one can simply move pastit takes time and people often need professional help.
It could have been worse.
Youre overreacting.
This undermines their emotional responses and suggests their feelings are exaggerated or unwarranted.
Arent you over that yet?
Why cant you just be normal?
Suggesting that they are abnormal in some way can exacerbate their feelings of alienation and isolation.
Youre too sensitive, you should probably be stronger.
Labeling them as overlysensitivecan make the person feel weak or inadequate for experiencing PTSD.
Others have been through worse and theyre fine.
Comparing their experience to others traumas can invalidate their feelings and discourage them from seeking help.
It happened a long time ago.
Stop dwelling on the past.
This suggests they are choosing to focus on their trauma.
I know how you feel.
Unless you have experienced PTSD yourself, this can come off as insincere and dismissive of their unique experience.
Remember, the key to effective support lies in respecting their boundaries and offering them patience andcompassion.
Your support can make a significant difference in their life.
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National Institute of Mental Health.Post-traumatic stress disorder.
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