Those suffering with PTSD are probably the front line medical workers and first responders (ambulance workers, police officers, fire fighters, military personnel and anyone working every day in the middle of this crisis). No matter how rigorous medical training (or any other training) may be, it never prepares professionals for high numbers of death and dying. Working under physically and emotionally exhausting conditions day after day wears down resilience and stamina. If the trauma is significant enough, Post Traumatic Stress can become a problem. A few symptoms of PTSD (DSM-5):

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Exposure to actual or threatened death.

1. Directly experiencing the traumatic event(s).
2. Witnessing, in person, the event(s) as it occurs/ed to others.
3. Learning the traumatic event(s) occurred to a close family member or close friend.
4. Experiencing repeated or extreme exposure to adversive details of the traumatic event(s).
5. Recurrent, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories of the trauma.
6. Intense or prolonged psychological distress or exposure to internal or external cues that resemble the traumatic event.

Here are some tips for coping with PTSD:

1. Somehow, as a global society, we must develop a new and different perspective on death. With our final breath, we step into our eternal home. For many this is a joyful graduation.  God has appointed the number of our days and that cannot be changed. Caring and loving people as they make the transition from one life to another is a holy opportunity and privilege, especially now that loved ones cannot be with the sick while they are in the hospital. Losing a young person is always devastating, but older people can be released in peace. I started rethinking death at the time of my father’s passing ten years ago. I now view death joyfully as a person moves from this life of stress and strain, hopefully, into their eternal home in heaven.
2. Medical workers and first responders need to talk out and through feelings and emotions with someone who understands what they are experiencing. Staying in touch with family and friends when you have time off is essential.
3. Seek online counseling/therapy to help you through this difficult time. Talk it out.
4. Ask God to strengthen you. Millions are praying for you!
5. You may need medication to help you through this crisis. Call your healthcare provider.
6. Treat yourself to simple things you enjoy. Pamper yourself.
7. Refuse to think about work in your off hours. In the mystery of God, He has preordained our number of days.
8. Take good care of your health. YOU MATTER!

We are grateful for every medical worker, first responder, grocery clerk, subway attendant, factory worker and anyone who has gone to work every day for the sake of all of us.

Your endless sacrifice is applauded.

 

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Statements on this blog site are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease nor viewed as personal medical advice, but rather for the purpose of general information. The reader is strongly encouraged to speak with his/her own physician or healthcare provider for advice.