As an online counsellor working with clients in the Reading area, I often hear people say "But I didn't think that was PTSD." Do you experience unexplained physical symptoms, or find yourself feeling disconnected from your daily life? Perhaps you're struggling with memory problems that don't make sense to you? These could be lesser-known signs of PTSD that many people overlook.
Beyond Flashbacks and Nightmares
While most people associate PTSD with flashbacks and nightmares, the reality is that trauma affects our minds and bodies in many subtle ways. Understanding these lesser-known symptoms can be the first step toward healing.
- Physical Symptoms
Your body keeps score of trauma, often manifesting in unexpected ways. Chronic digestive issues, unexplained aches and pains, and persistent muscle tension might not be just physical problems - they could be your body's response to trauma.
- Memory and Concentration Issues
Do you find yourself forgetting everyday things or struggling to focus at work? Trauma can affect our cognitive functions in significant ways. Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and problems with short-term memory are common but rarely recognised PTSD symptoms.
- Time Loss and Dissociation
Ever arrive somewhere with no memory of the journey? Or feel like you're watching your life from outside your body? These experiences of dissociation are common in PTSD but often misunderstood or dismissed.
- Emotional Numbness
PTSD isn't always about feeling too much - sometimes it's about not feeling enough. Difficulty experiencing positive emotions, feeling disconnected from loved ones, or losing interest in activities you once enjoyed can all be signs of trauma response.
- Hypervigilance in Everyday Situations
Finding yourself constantly on edge, even in safe places? Hypervigilance can look like always needing to face the door in restaurants, being startled by normal sounds, or feeling unable to relax in familiar settings.
- Changes in Self-Perception
Trauma can fundamentally alter how we see ourselves. Feeling permanently changed, experiencing deep shame, or having difficulty imagining a future for yourself are significant but often overlooked symptoms of PTSD.
Why These Symptoms Matter
These symptoms can significantly impact your daily life, affecting relationships, work performance, and overall well-being. Many people try to cope with these symptoms for years without realising their connection to trauma, often blaming themselves in the process.
Finding Support
Understanding these symptoms is the first step toward healing. PTSD is not just about the obvious signs - it's a complex condition that affects every aspect of our being. The good news is that with proper support and treatment, recovery is possible.
As a counsellor specialising in trauma and PTSD, I understand how overwhelming these symptoms can be. If you recognise any of these signs in your own life, know that you're not alone, and help is available.
Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a session. Together, we can work on understanding your symptoms and developing strategies for healing. Your journey to recovery begins with understanding these important signs and finding the right support.