Helping a Friend with PTSD

Ask them what triggers them. Many people with PTSD can be triggered by seemingly harmless words, places, activities, sounds, tastes, etc. – and it’s often tiresome or embarrassing to bring these these up without being prompted. It’s helpful if you kindly ask what you should avoid doing or saying.
Avoid sudden, surprise movements; especially for those who have PTSD as a result of abuse or assault. Individuals may experience intense anxiety if you grab them from behind, jump out from behind a corner, attempt to scare them, shout in their ear, etc. Even well-meaning surprises that are meant with good intentions can be extremely stressful.
Know how to spot flashbacks. Individuals with PTSD will often experience intense episodes of “zoning out” or dissociation when they are having flashbacks of their trauma. You may want to establish a phrase or sign that they can use to help communicate a dissociative episode when in public. Ask them what work for them.
Ask them what they would like you to do when they’re experiencing a flashback. Some individuals will become nonverbal, others will have outbursts of extreme sadness or anger. Some will be comforted by physical touch, others may not want to be touched in any way, shape, or form. It’s best to communicate how you can be of most help and comfort to them.
Help them with around-the-house, tasks. Seemingly menial activities like doing the dishes or folding clothes can be interrupted by intrusive thoughts, and it may help to assist them with the task, or even just talk to them while they do the task themselves.
Do some research before putting on TV shows, going to a movie, or playing different forms of media that may be triggering.

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