Who Gets PTSD? Breaking the Myth That It's Only for Veterans
- Jun 20, 2025
When we think of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), many people immediately picture military veterans returning from war zones. But PTSD is not limited to combat trauma — it can affect anyone who has experienced or witnessed a deeply distressing event. From survivors of domestic abuse to those who’ve endured medical trauma, natural disasters, or childhood neglect, PTSD does not discriminate.
Here, we open up the conversation about who gets PTSD and how comprehensive support, like holistic healing for PTSD in Saratoga, can provide lasting relief.
Who Is at Risk of Developing PTSD?
PTSD can affect individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and professions. The condition arises after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event that overwhelms the individual’s ability to cope. Common causes include:
- Childhood abuse or neglect
- Sexual or physical assault
- Serious accidents or injuries
- Sudden loss of a loved one
- Domestic violence
- Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, fires, etc.)
- Medical trauma (intensive care experiences, cancer treatment, etc.)
- Witnessing violence or catastrophic events
Symptoms of PTSD
Understanding the symptoms can help individuals recognize the signs in themselves or their loved ones. Common symptoms include:
- Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts about the traumatic event
- Hypervigilance, irritability, or exaggerated startle response
- Avoiding everything that reminds one of the trauma
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Trouble with sleeping or focusing
- Experiencing feelings of remorse and despair
These symptoms can disrupt daily life, relationships, and work, but help is available, and healing is possible.
Also Read: Key Holistic Therapies to Help Rewire the Brain from PTSD
Holistic Healing for PTSD in Saratoga
Traditional PTSD treatments, such as therapy and medication, remain vital. But increasingly, people are turning to holistic healing for PTSD in Saratoga and other wellness-focused communities. These approaches consider the mind-body connection and emphasize treating the whole person, not just the diagnosis.
Holistic methods may include:
- Trauma-informed yoga and movement therapy
- Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR)
- Acupuncture and energy work
- Art or music therapy
- Nutritional support and herbal remedies
- EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing)
For those seeking alternative or complementary care for PTSD, holistic healers are available. They will focus on restoring balance and resilience, and they often work in conjunction with licensed mental health professionals to create an integrative care plan for the affected.
PTSD Support & Healing: Top Questions Answered
Who can get PTSD?
PTSD can affect anyone, not just military veterans. It often develops after experiencing or witnessing trauma such as abuse, accidents, or natural disasters.
What are the main symptoms of PTSD?
Symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, emotional numbness, avoidance, irritability, and difficulty sleeping or concentrating.
Can children and teenagers develop PTSD?
Yes. Children and teens exposed to neglect, abuse, or traumatic events are also at risk of developing PTSD.
Is there holistic healing for PTSD available in Saratoga?
Yes. Many practitioners in Saratoga offer holistic PTSD care including trauma-informed yoga, mindfulness, EMDR, and nutritional support.
Do holistic treatments replace therapy or medication?
Holistic treatments are often used alongside traditional therapy and medication to support healing and improve overall well-being.