“A date which will live in infamy”

 

December 7, 1941, “a date which will live in infamy” as said by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. For some, this conjures up memories and emotions related to past events. For some, they know it only because of high school American history class or even, unfortunately, due to recent events.

 

I wonder though, do any of you have a more personal “date which will live in infamy”? Perhaps you have suffered a trauma in your own life; something that still affects you to this day. Something that impairs your ability to function. Perhaps it prevents you from going out to restaurants or fireworks displays. Maybe it prevents you from being in a meaningful relationship or working effectively in groups?

 

If any of these rings close to home, I’m describing what could be post traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. It is a conglomeration of symptoms following a significantly tragic or series of traumatic events that leaves one with difficulty functioning in today's society, unable to perform and live life the way they deserve to be living.

 

PTSD can affect anyone – men, women, or children. It does not just happen to soldiers, nor is it exclusive to victims of abuse. It does not imply a weakness or flaw. PTSD is an illness and treatment can help. Oftentimes the treatment includes a combination of therapy and medication.

 

Lots of people have tragic events, losses, or strife in their lives. Not everyone gets PTSD, but if you or a loved one are having symptoms that are impacting your ability to function, or struggling with any other mental health issue, please seek treatment. There are a lot of good and effective ways to achieve this, so please contact myself (or someone else local to you) and get help. If you need treatment from an addiction psychiatrist, please contact me at 954-755-2885. I am located at 5551 North University Drive, Suite 202, Coral Springs, Florida 33067, part of Kimmel Psychology. Evening hours available.