By Dr. Adriana Popescu
In my work as a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma, I frequently encounter misunderstandings and misconceptions about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These myths can often prevent people from seeking the help they need or understanding what they or their loved ones are experiencing. In this article, I aim to shed light on some of the most common myths about PTSD and provide clarity on what it really means to live with and heal from trauma.
Myth 1: Trauma Only Comes from Major Events
Many people believe that trauma must stem from life-threatening events like wars, natural disasters, or severe assaults. While these can undoubtedly be traumatic, trauma is highly subjective and varies greatly from person to person. Ten people might experience the same event, but only a few may develop PTSD. This depends on factors like individual resilience, past trauma, and overall mental, emotional, and physical health. For example, someone may struggle with PTSD after witnessing community violence, even if they were not directly involved.
Myth 2: Only Direct Victims Can Have PTSD
Another common misconception is that only those directly involved in traumatic events can develop PTSD. This isn’t true. There’s something called vicarious traumatization, where individuals can experience PTSD symptoms after witnessing or hearing about traumatic events, particularly if it involves someone they care about. This highlights the importance of understanding trauma’s broader impact, as it can affect anyone, even those indirectly exposed.
Myth 3: Trauma Must Be a Single, Identifiable Event
Trauma doesn’t always result from a single event. Chronic or complex PTSD can arise from continuous exposure to stressful environments, such as growing up in a household with an abusive family member or living in an unsafe neighborhood. Even seemingly “minor” experiences, like emotional neglect or bullying, can accumulate and result in significant trauma.
Myth 4: Time Heals All Wounds
A prevalent myth is that time alone can heal trauma. Unfortunately, this isn’t true. Trauma is not just psychological but also physiological. It can become stored in the body, manifesting as chronic pain or other physical symptoms. The brain’s amygdala, which helps us respond to danger, can become overactive, leading to a heightened state of alertness even when there is no actual threat.
Myth 5: Trauma Is Incurable
Perhaps the most disheartening myth is the belief that trauma is a lifelong condition. While trauma can have lasting effects, it is not necessarily permanent. With the right therapeutic interventions, such as EMDR, brainspotting, energy psychology, and other body-inclusive therapies, individuals can heal from trauma. Research has shown that people can recover from PTSD, often in just a few sessions, when using these specialized treatments.
It’s crucial to understand that trauma is a complex and multifaceted experience. By dispelling these myths, we can foster a more compassionate and informed approach to those affected by PTSD. If you or someone you know is struggling with unresolved trauma, please reach out for support. At Firebird Healing, we offer various therapeutic modalities to help individuals on their healing journey.
Would you like to hear more? You can listen to my latest podcasts, read my articles, or book a session HERE.
You can also listen to the full conversation about the main PTSD Myths HERE
Dr. Adriana Popescu is a clinical psychologist, addiction and trauma specialist, author, speaker, and empowerment coach who is based in San Francisco, California, and practices worldwide. She is the founder and CEO of Firebird Healing, an innovative holistic trauma healing center in Northern California. For free stress-relief resources, please visit: https://www.firebird-healing.com/feeling-a-bit-stressed
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