Healing from PTSD: supporting your mental health in times of crisis

In recent years, global events, economic uncertainty, natural disasters, and rapid changes in how we live and work have led many people to evaluate their mental and emotional well-being. From adapting to remote or hybrid work environments to navigating social and political tensions, individuals and communities alike have faced ongoing stressors. These challenges have taken a toll, leading to heightened feelings of anxiety, burnout, trauma, and in some cases, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

PTSD, which the Mayo Clinic defines as a mental health condition that's caused by an extremely stressful or terrifying event — either being part of it or witnessing it –– is something that any person, regardless of age can experience. 

For some people who experience traumatic events, the emotional and mental impact may be temporary. But for others, symptoms can worsen over time and develop into PTSD.

Glenn Scott, LCSW, FACHE, director of the Youth Partial Hospital Program at Loma Linda University Behavioral Health, says that recent events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, wildfires, ongoing war conflicts, mass violence, and economic hardships have contributed to PTSD.

“PTSD isn't just about what happened to you. It's about how your mind continues to protect you, even when the danger has passed,” Scott explains. 

“Healing begins when we teach the brain it's safe to let go.”

Symptoms of PTSD

Although PTSD can affect anyone, the symptoms don’t always appear in the same way from person to person. However, Scott says there are warning signs to look out for.

In children, signs may include:

• Lack of positive emotions

• Intense ongoing fear or sadness

• Irritability and angry outbursts

• Acting helpless, hopeless, or withdrawn

• Nightmares and sleep problems

In adults, signs may include:

• A fear of dying

• Social isolation

• Anger and mood swings

• Difficulty concentrating

• Withdrawal

• Depression or anxiety

• Difficulty maintaining relationships

Signs of PTSD in general:

• Overwhelming sadness, fear, or anger

• Having flashbacks or nightmares

• Feeling detached from your life and loved ones

• Avoiding memories of the illness

• Transgenerational effects

• Unequal impact across the board

• Changed beliefs

Healing from PTSD

For someone showing signs of PTSD, Scott says there are several things to do on the path to healing. 

Professional help

Mental health professionals are trained to recognize the complex symptoms of PTSD. Scott says that the use of evidence-based treatments such as therapy, eye movement desensitization, and reprocessing therapy helps people process trauma, reduce symptoms, and regain a sense of safety and control. 

“Reaching out to a professional can help you process trauma in a healthy space and give you the necessary tools needed to heal,” Scott says. 

Avoid triggers and build coping skills

Scott also recommends avoiding triggers, especially during the healing process. To do this, it’s first important to identify all triggers –– internal and external. From there, a professional can help establish boundaries, develop coping strategies, and plan for difficult situations. 

Take care of yourself and be patient