PTSD & Your Partner: What They Are Experiencing and How to Help

Almost everyone understands what PTSD is, but it can be difficult to truly know how it impacts your life unless you’re going through it. 

When you’re in a relationship with someone who has PTSD, you might feel overwhelmed, frustrated, guilty, or even heartbroken sometimes over the fact that you can’t help them with their disorder. 

But, in certain ways, you can.  

There are things you should and shouldn’t do in your relationship that can make a difference when you have a partner with PTSD. Let’s take a closer look at what they might be experiencing, and how you can help. 

What is Your Partner Feeling?

PTSD occurs in individuals who have gone through a traumatic event. We often associate it with the military, and that is common. But, it’s only a small fraction. Any type of trauma can cause PTSD in someone. That includes going through a natural disaster or dealing with abuse. 

Someone with PTSD might regularly experience flashbacks that cause them to relive their trauma. They are also likely to avoid “triggers”. Sometimes, they might get overwhelmed by their own emotions. 

How does that affect a relationship?

Sometimes, PTSD can change the way a person relates to someone else. Because of their emotions, they might have a difficult time with any of the normal challenges within a relationship. 

Of course, that affects you, too. How your partner acts can impact the way you behave in your relationship. Sometimes, you simply may not know what to do. 

When someone in a relationship has PTSD and the other person doesn’t know how to handle it, the relationship can go downhill quickly. That’s why it’s so important to educate yourself. 

How You Can Help

So, what can you do if you know your partner has PTSD and is struggling? 

The most important thing is to provide consistent support. Let them know you’re there, and you’re ready to help them however you can. 

Don’t ever minimize what your partner is feeling. Instead, encourage them to talk about those feelings and open up as much as possible. You should try to offer as much comfort, warmth, and support as possible. 

Eventually, you’ll learn your partner’s “triggers”. You can use that knowledge to guide them away from those things, which will make both of your lives easier. 

Aside from supporting them, the most important thing you can do is encourage them to get help. You can be there for everyday comfort and as a listening ear. You might even be able to calm your partner down during flashbacks and moments of fear. 

But, PTSD shouldn’t be left untreated. If it is, it can become worse and more severe. With therapy, it can become manageable. Someone struggling with it can learn how to cope effectively, and take their life back. Not everyone is eager to receive treatment. They might be embarrassed or think they don’t “need” it. But, if you love that person, encouraging them to get help is crucial. 

Take Care of Yourself

It’s important to remember to practice self-care when you have a partner with PTSD. You might have no problem caring for them as much as possible. But, you can’t pour from an empty cup. It’s not selfish to take care of yourself so you can take better care of your partner. 

Make your mental and physical health priorities. Doing so will be better for you, your partner, and your relationship. You’ll be able to commit to the things you need to do without the risk of burning out, and it can assure your partner that you’re not feeling so overwhelmed that you want to leave. 

By taking these steps and understanding what your partner is going through, you can strengthen your relationship while making sure they get the help they need. Please read more about anxiety treatment and reach out soon for a confidential consultation soon.