General experiences of Post Traumatic Stress

The DSM – 5 says PTSD is a mental disorder that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event, war, rape, or a natural disaster.

It is normal to have distressing or upsetting memories, feeling on edge, or trouble sleeping after the event. Everyday activities may be hard to do such as going out and being social, going to work or having healthy relationships with your family and friends.

PTSi/D may start sometime after the event.

A point to note at WMtD we prefer calling Post Traumatic Stress an Injury not a Disorder. We believe that the change of language from disorder to injury can help the suffer heal. What the healing and recovery looks like is as individual as the people experiencing it. This is for information only and not to be used to diagnose.

Symptoms of PTSI/D

A) Reliving the event/s (re-experiencing symptoms) Memories can come back at anytime and can appear to be very real.

• Nightmares, night terrors
• Flashbacks
• You may see hear or smell something that causes you to relive the event.

Avoidance

B) Avoiding situations or people that could end up with you remembering or reliving the traumatic event.

• Avoiding crowds the feeling of safety and security away from them
• Avoiding driving if you were in a convoy that had been attacked in some way
• Avoiding watching films or tv programs about a similar event you experienced
• Keeping busy to avoid thinking or talking about the event

An increase in negative thought or feelings.

C) Your thinking may be more negative as in how you view yourself and others.

• Feeling numb – not able to positive feelings towards other people or yourself, loss of interest in things previously enjoyed.
• Memory – the event has been “wiped” or changed to something different to less painful to remember.
• Paranoia – the world and everyone is out to get me. No one is to be trusted.
• Feelings of Guilt or shame – you may feel guilty that you survived and your oppo didn’t. There may be shame about a decision.

Hyperarousal

D) Constantly on the lookout for threats that aren’t there i.e. Walking down a street why is a window open and the others closed on that road.

• Insomnia – not being able to sleep or going to sleep but then waking up a few hours after and not sleeping again.
• Concentrating – Finding it hard to focus
• Loud noises – Again this is avoidance, not wanting to go to firework displays because it triggers recall of the event
• Risk taking – Gambling, abusing alcohol or other substances

Ways to help yourself

• Grounding – Breathing techniques and noticing how you are breathing.
• Meditation/mindfulness – meditation can take many forms such as walking, sitting and having a mantra or something to focus on
• Diet/nutrition – The better diet and more nutritionally dense the foods you eat the more positive the effects on the brain and body,
• Peer support/community – Finding people with similar experiences and sharing with them. Connecting with people is essential in helping to recover.

Navigating Transition: From Structured Uniformed Services to Civilian Life

Today, let’s dive into how structured environments like the uniformed services (armed forces, police, paramedics, and firefighters) can be a great fit for neuro-different individuals, and how transitioning to civilian life can present unique challenges.

Benefits of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in Uniformed Services:

• Clear guidelines and rules provide structure and predictability.
• Helps reduce ambiguity during operations, exercises, or daily routines.
• Promotes teamwork and coordination based on defined procedures.
• Supports individuals with neuro-differences by offering a systematic approach.

Challenges of Transitioning to Civilian Workplaces:

• Loss of structured environment and familiar routines.
• Increased ambiguity and uncertainty in job roles and expectations.
• Difficulty adapting to less formalised processes and organisational cultures.
• Potential isolation without the strong community found in uniformed services.

Navigating the Transition Successfully:

• Seek out employers or industries with clear structures and processes.
• Utilise transferable skills gained from uniformed services (e.g., teamwork, problem-solving).
• Explore neuro-friendly workplaces that value diversity and inclusivity.
• Consider seeking support through coaching or mentorship programs.

At What Makes the Difference CIC we work with individuals with neuro-differences during transitions to civilian life. Our tailored coaching and resources can help you navigate the challenges and thrive in new environments. If you are already employed we can work with you and your organisation to overcome the challenges you may be facing.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Embrace your strengths, stay adaptable, and find communities that appreciate your unique talents.

Let’s continue this conversation and share experiences that can benefit each other!