PTSD is one thing that many people deal with. It isn’t just something that happens to military personnel, but it is mostly attributed to the things that they see and deal with as members of active duty during wartime situations. The craziest thing about it is trying to understand what triggers the person may have that can bring it on. One example of this is how loud noises can trigger PTSD.
The Stress of PTSD
When it comes to our veterans, a lot of different triggers are around us each day. It can be stress that triggers bad things. They may dream and as they hit deep sleep, remember the things that they saw while fighting and it may stress them for days. Loud noises and even the sounds of screaming children may be an instant trigger that brings on PTSD in a huge way, more so if it is a sudden noise that is unexpected. One example of this could be that you drop a plate or a glass and they may jump or start sweating instantly.
Perhaps it is that loud noises sound like bombs or gunfire that is the biggest trigger of all. Fireworks, a hunter firing off a gunshot, loud music, and other sounds can definitely set issues in motion for a veteran or any other military personnel.
How to Help PTSD
During a PTSD situation, the person suffering may see, feel, hear, and taste the same things that they did at that exact moment that they see in their mind. They go back to a worse time. One way to help them combat the problem is to help them see that they feel it, but they are not in that position now. You may have them look around the room and describe what they are seeing, not in their mind, but in the room. This will help them to refocus on the “NOW” rather than the “Then” of what they are dealing with.
If you have PTSD, you may also attempt to mask loud noises. For instance, instead of listening to loud fireworks and relive what you want to forget, you could avoid going to the Fourth of July celebration. If you live near the area where it takes place each July, you could play your favorite music on the loudest bass outdoor speakers. This will enable you to feel calmer. It could also help you during family gatherings where screaming kids at play may bother you the most.
Ask for Help
If PTSD is something you suffer with, you will need to refocus your energy on more positive things. Tell yourself that those problems you faced then are no longer your problems. You are home, you are safe, you are surrounded by the love of people you care about. Let them help you. Talk to them, especially if you know your trigger is loud noises. Explain what you are feeling and let them inside of your world. Even if they do not know exactly what you were feeling, sometimes simply having someone to listen can help. It helps you all.
