Supporting Someone with PTSD: Practical Guide for Loved Ones

Core Principles

• Listen without fixing: Validate ("That sounds incredibly hard"), don't problem-solve unless asked.
• Respect boundaries: Don't press for trauma details; let them lead.
• Learn triggers: Crowds, loud noises, anniversaries, certain smells – ask how to help avoid/manage.
• Encourage professional care: Offer to help find a therapist, attend intake, provide transport.
• Practical support: Meals, childcare, appointment reminders, medication pickup.

What NOT to Do

• "Just get over it," "It wasn't that bad," "Others have it worse."
• Force exposure to triggers.
• Take symptoms personally (withdrawal, irritability).
• Enable avoidance (e.g., always driving so they don't have to).

Crisis Planning

• Co-create a written safety plan: warning signs, coping steps, emergency contacts, 988, nearest ER.
• Secure firearms/lethal means if suicidal ideation present.

Self-Care for Supporters

• Set limits; you are not their therapist.
• Seek your own support (therapy, family groups like NAMI Family-to-Family).
• Recognize secondary traumatic stress.

Your steady presence matters more than perfect words.