This originally appeared on www.caregiver.com
Psychotherapists, trained in assessing and providing support for trauma victims, know very well both the short and long term impacts of being exposed to situations that overwhelm one’s natural ability to cope. Even those who do not inhabit the world of psychological diagnoses know very well that PTSD refers to post traumatic stress disorder and how serious and pervasive it is in a world where traumatic events happen with alarming regularity.
Many caregivers do not have the luxury of moving into their roles along a gradual learning curve. To the contrary, many are thrust into this role with no notice. Whether it is the sudden heart attack, stroke, diagnosis of a cognitive disorder etc., many caregivers begin their journey in the wake of a traumatic event to a loved one that leaves them reeling and experiencing many of the symptoms of PTSD to include:
- Unwanted upsetting memories
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks
- Emotional distress after exposure to traumatic reminders
- Physical reactivity after exposure to traumatic reminders
The unofficial diagnosis for these folks is best described as post traumatic caregiving, or PTCG for short. PTCG can be thought of as a precursor to PTSD, having the added dimensions that the triggering event has happened to a loved one and often involves a cascade of critical moments. Additionally, the random nature of the next crisis—known as “what now?” moments—and the challenge of having to juggle multiple demands sets PTCG apart from other psychological syndromes.
That most caregivers do not go on to develop PTSD is a result of multiple factors, not the least of which being the resiliency many find during crucial moments in life. That almost all will experience PTCG is the result of the natural stress response when faced with high impact situations that rattle all areas of life. While psychotherapy, supported by cutting edge techniques and possibly medications, is the standard treatment for PTSD, those experiencing PTCG are well-known for the “where will I find time for that?” response when told to practice self-care.