About 6% of people in the United States will experience PTSD at some point. Trauma is common, but many have been misled by misinformation.
These mistaken beliefs, almost like Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) myths, can harm those suffering from the condition while preventing others from extending much-needed help.
Let’s look at the biggest myths, learn the truth about PTSD, and discover how we can all help.

Understanding the Importance of PTSD Awareness

Knowing the truth about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is not of help just for the individuals it affects. It can be talked about for families, friends, workplaces, and communities.
If there is accurate information, it leads to empathetic and early intervention and grows into a more supportive environment.
Here are the reasons why people need to understand PTSD:

• Proving the case encourages further people to reach out for guidance.
• It allows loved ones to provide better emotional support.
• Treating early can lower the chances of long-term problems like depression and suicide.
• Familiarity among the community is used to support the reaction to any crisis or disaster.

At XTRA Care Clinic, we believe education is the first step toward healing. That’s why Dr. Evelyne Imah combines evidence-based therapies with compassionate care to help patients and families manage PTSD.

Let’s look into the usual PTSD misbeliefs and the facts that clarify them.

Myth #1: “If You’re Strong, You Won’t Get PTSD”

Fact:Strength or weakness has nothing to do with PTSD. It is a matter of how the brain detects danger.
Two people can face the same incident, one might recover relatively fast, whereas the other suffers for a long time.
It is unfair and cruel to lay the blame for PTSD on a person. The most common mistake people often make about PTSD.

Myth #2: PTSD Happens Immediately After a Traumatic Event

Fact: The DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders) made it clear that the symptoms have existed for more than a month and are causing severe suffering. Others may not relate to their symptoms until triggered by a life event, the trauma anniversary, or long-term stressors.

Myth #3: “Only Soldiers Get PTSD”

Fact: Military veterans aren’t the only group dealing with this.
Any trauma, such as that caused by an accident, abuse, or even witnessing violence, induces the conditions for developing PTSD.
In its essence, PTSD is a “combat injury”, thereby minimizing the suffering of ordinary civilians, children, and other survivors.

Myth #4: “People with PTSD Are Violent”

Fact: This is one of the most harmful PTSD myths. Most people with PTSD are not violent.
Even if they seem nervous or jump at surprising events, they are still not dangerous. Portraying people with PTSD as being unique keeps them from being supported and treated.

Myth #5: PTSD Only Affects the Mind

Fact: PTSD influences people’s thoughts and emotions as well as their bodies. Those dealing with PTSD might also have:

• Chronic headaches
• Digestive issues
• Insomnia or nightmares
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fatigue or low energy

Both the body and the brain are closely linked.

Myth #6: Children Don’t Get PTSD

Fact: Children absolutely can develop PTSD. It might look different than it does in adults, often showing up as:

• Tantrums or irritability
• Bedwetting
• Fear of separation
• Trouble focusing in school

Kids need support, safety, and sometimes therapy, just like adults do.

Myth #7: “PTSD Can’t Be Treated”

Fact: PTSD can be managed. Many people get well and lead their lives fully and productively. Available options include:

• Talk therapy (like CBT or EMDR)
• Trauma-Focused Therapy
• Medication
• Healthy lifestyle habits like exercise, nutrition, and sleep

At XTRA Care Clinic, we provide Trauma-Informed Therapy in a secure environment. Dr. Imah uses tools like EMDR and CBT to address thought patterns.
She also offers assistance through telepsychiatry appointments from the convenience of patients’ residences.

Myth #8: If You Don’t Remember the Trauma, You Don’t Have PTSD

Fact: It’s common for people to forget parts of the trauma, especially if it is extremely frightening. This doesn’t invalidate their experiences or emotions.
PTSD can still develop and cause distress even if some memories are unclear or missing.

How Can You Help Someone with PTSD?

• Listen without judgment. Let them share at their own pace.
• Stay patient. Healing can be slow.
• Offer calm spaces. Loud or bright places can feel overwhelming.
• Encourage professional help. Therapists know how to guide recovery.
• Learn more. Busting PTSD myths starts with knowledge.

Final Thoughts

It may be necessary to create a society of healing and mental wellness through awareness and the dispelling of myths.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is a reality, a legitimate state indeed, and can be treated. Education tends to develop empathy, which then propels recipients into action.

If you or a loved one is dealing with PTSD, get in touch with a trained mental health specialist. At XTRA Care Clinic, Dr. Evelyne Imah provides trauma-informed care. She combines science, compassion, and innovation to help you recover.

Ready to move forward? Contact XTRA Care Clinic to start your healing journey.

FAQs

Can only big traumas cause PTSD?

No. Small, repeated hurts, like bullying, can also lead to PTSD. Every person’s mind decides what feels too heavy.

Does talking about trauma make it worse?

Talking in a safe place with a trained helper often speeds healing. Silence lets pain grow.

Is PTSD rare?

It is more common than most think. Millions of adults and children live with it worldwide. Knowing the numbers clears up more PTSD misconceptions.