This post is the second in a new series about special needs parenting stress, trauma, and PTSD. The first post introduced the series, and child psychologist Liz Matheis briefly explained how the stress experienced by parents of kids with PTSD and other special needs can result secondary PTSD. Today, Dr. Matheis is back to answer this question sent by a Different Dream reader who is the mom of a son with autism: Where is the dividing line between trauma and PTSD? Here is her reply:

On a daily basis, we experience stress. Stress is that feeling of “Oh my gosh, I’m going to be late!” or “I’m never going to get this done on time!” We all know that feeling in varying degrees. On some days, a car accident or our child breaking a bone takes that daily stress to a new high. But overall, we cope, perhaps with a glass of wine, a bubble bath, or an early bedtime. The next day, we get up and do it again. By then, we are no longer reminiscing about yesterday’s stressors–unless you are continuing to handle the stress of yesterday–and you are able to focus on the next major task or event of your life, positive or negative. That is your good old experience of stress. You feel overwhelmed in the moment, you are done with it, and you move on.

So, when does good, old stress become Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)? PTSD is related to a traumatic event (such as a shooting, abuse) either directly or through indirect experience (such as social workers who work with children who are sexually or physically abused). The experience of stress or thoughts about it remain relatively constant, taking very little break if any at all. This kind of stress impacts a person’s ability to make decisions, focus, and complete daily tasks. The individual suffering from PTSD can be agitated, hypervigilant, or even angry. Their stress also impacts appetite (stress eating or no/low appetite), sleep, interpersonal relationships, and ability to manage daily tasks like grocery shopping or managing bills.

The deciding factor of when stress has become chronic and pervasive is when you it impacts overall functioning. It’s that line between, “This really stinks, but I’ll get through it,” and “I can’t breathe, I’m not going to make it, and I don’t want to do this anymore.”

Parents of children with special needs who have been traumatized by their journey in gaining a diagnosis, seeking treatment, participating in treatment, and managing daily behaviors and struggles can develop PTSD.  When parents feels stuck, hopeless, helpless, and burned out their stress has developed into PTSD, and it’s time to seek help through a psychologist, support group, or psychiatrist.

Your Questions about the Dividing Line Between Trauma and PTSD

Does Liz’s information bring to mind new questions about special needs parenting stress, trauma, or PTSD? If so, you’re invited to leave them in the comment box.

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