Shuvra Deb: With You

6. Being There For A Friend or Relative with PTSD

Episode Summary

In this show I talk about ways of helping a friend or relative suffering with PTSD. I discuss some of the symptoms to look out for in your friend or relative. I explore things that you can do to help them cope with their symptoms. These include providing your friend or relative with support; allowing them to talk about their experiences when they are ready; providing a safe and secure environment for your friend or relative; helping them to build routine and find stability; how to anticipate and understand triggers; and the importance of being tactful.

Episode Notes

In this show I talk about ways of helping a friend or relative suffering with PTSD. I discuss some of the symptoms to look out for in your friend or relative. 

I explore things that you can do to help them cope with their symptoms. These include providing your friend or relative with support; allowing them to talk about their experiences when they are ready; providing a safe and secure environment for your friend or relative; helping them to build routine and find stability; how to anticipate and understand triggers; and the importance of being tactful. 

I talk about some of my personal stories from Hurricane Irma related to having to leave my pets behind, how I coped with that, and how due to the overwhelming generosity of others, my cats and I were reunited in the most extraordinary of circumstances. 

I also discuss the importance of looking after yourself and your own mental health when looking after a friend or relative with PTSD. 

 

Online resources:
Infinite Mindcare, Cayman Islands: https://www.infinitemindcare.com
Alex Panton Foundation, Cayman Islands: https://alexpantonfoundation.ky
Loud Silent Voices, Cayman Islands: http://www.lsv.support
Dr. Ishtla Singh, Ishtla Pitman Psychology: https://www.psychotherapy.org.uk/therapist/ishtla-singh-2dyxuaag/
Dr. Gabor Mate: https://drgabormate.com
www.wondermind.com

 

Books:
Ethan Kross, “Chatter”
Don Miguel Ruiz, The Four Agreements
Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma

 

Note:
Whilst this show is about raising mental health awareness, I am not a medical doctor and am not qualified to give mental health advice. If you are experiencing any mental health issues, please consult a qualified professional. 

 

Contact: 
Reach out to me with your comments on my show here: shuvradeb82@gmail.com