Why PTSD Awareness Matters

June marks PTSD Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on an often-misunderstood condition that affects millions of people, including many survivors of sexual violence. PTSD can feel isolating and overwhelming, but understanding what it is and how it shows up is the first step toward reclaiming your life. You are not alone, and healing is possible.

What Is PTSD?

Official Definition:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying or deeply distressing event. According to the DSM-5, PTSD involves persistent symptoms such as intrusive memories, avoidance behaviours, negative changes in mood and thinking, and heightened reactions following trauma.

In Everyday Language:

PTSD is your mind and body’s way of trying to protect you after something really difficult or frightening has happened. It’s not a sign of weakness; it’s a natural response to overwhelming stress. Sometimes, those protective responses stick around long after the danger has passed, making daily life feel hard to navigate.

How PTSD Shows Up in the Body

PTSD doesn’t just live in your thoughts—it often shows up in your body, too. Common physical symptoms include:

• Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares
• Feeling tired all the time, no matter how much you rest
• Muscle tension, aches, or unexplained pain
• Headaches or stomach issues
• Feeling “on edge” or easily startled

These are all ways your body tries to keep you safe, even if it doesn’t feel that way.

How PTSD Shows Up in the Mind

Emotionally and mentally, PTSD can look like:

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories that feel very real
• Anxiety or panic attacks, sometimes “out of the blue”
• Feeling numb or disconnected from your emotions or surroundings
• Difficulty trusting others, even close friends or family
• Trouble concentrating or remembering things
• Hypervigilance—always being on alert for danger

These symptoms can make daily life feel exhausting and unpredictable. If you recognise yourself here, know that these are common responses to trauma.

How Common Is PTSD in Trauma Survivors?

PTSD is more common than many people realise. About 1 in 3 people who experience severe trauma will develop PTSD. For survivors of sexual violence, the risk is even higher. It’s important to remember that developing PTSD is never your fault—it’s a response to what happened, not a reflection of who you are.

Does PTSD Ever Clear Up by Itself?

Some people find that their symptoms fade over time, especially with support from friends, family, or community. But for many, PTSD can linger and may even get worse without help. This doesn’t mean you’re “broken”—it just means you need (and deserve) the right support. Recovery isn’t linear, and there’s no shame in needing help.

Key Steps to Heal from PTSD

Healing from PTSD is absolutely possible. Here are some steps you can take:

• Reach out for support:
  Whether it’s a trusted friend, therapist, or community group, you don’t have to do this alone. The ReConnected Life Community is a free group of survivors supporting each other. 
• Explore professional help:
  Trauma-informed therapy or coaching can provide tools and understanding tailored to your needs.
• Practice mind-body techniques:
  Meditation, gentle movement, or grounding exercises can help calm your system.
• Build a support network:
  Community (like our Community, or the Sanctuary Membership) can be a lifeline when things feel tough.
• Be patient and compassionate with yourself:
  Healing takes time. Celebrate small wins, and remember—progress isn’t always a straight line.
• Access resources:
  There are helplines, online communities, and organisations dedicated to helping survivors heal.

There Is Hope

PTSD can feel like a life sentence, but it isn’t. With the right support, understanding, and self-compassion, you can move from surviving to thriving. If you’re ready to take the first step, reach out—there’s a community here for you, and healing is possible.

If you found this post helpful, please share it or join our Sanctuary Membership for ongoing support, guided practices, and a community that understands. You don’t have to do this alone.