When someonewith ptsd pushes you away, it can be one of the most challenging situations to navigate. It can be confusing and hurtful because their behavior appears irrational, and it can seem like there's something specifically wrong with you.
The root cause of ptsd is the experience of a traumatic event that was personally meaningful or violent. The individual may have been in a situation that was potentially life-threatening, and the traumatic event was so severe that the person's brain stored it as a type of trauma. This stored trauma can then become a trigger for future emotional or physical symptoms, even years later.
When someone with ptsd gets triggered and pushes someone else away, their behavior is likely to be characterized by a combination of anxiety, fear, and a desire to avoid situations that remind them of their trauma. The individual may enter a 'fight-or-flight' response, where their body prepares to either fight or flee from a perceived threat that could re-trigger their memories of the trauma.
It's important to understand that the behavior of someone with ptsd is not a reflection on your worth or the value of your relationship. Instead, it's often an attempt to manage overwhelming emotions that can be particularly challenging for people with ptsd. The individual may need some space and time to process their emotions, in which you can provide understanding and support.
When someone with ptsd pushes you away, it can be hurtful and frustrating to accept. But remember that it's not about you. Ptsd lives in the body for years after a traumatic event, so it's common for individuals to experience emotional or physical withdrawal, which can表现为 a lack of response or an avoidance of close relationships.
In order to properly support someone with ptsd, you can take several steps:
Create a judgment-free zone
Allow the individual to know that you're there for them without judgment. Avoiding accusations or judgments about their trauma experiences or feelings can help them feel accepted and supported.
Respect their boundaries
Understand and respect that people with ptsd may have a variety of personal boundaries that need to be respected. This can include emotional boundaries, sexual boundaries, or physical boundaries that are associated with their trauma experiences.
Be aware of triggers
Identify what triggers the individual's ptsd symptoms and learn to respond to them. Being aware of potential triggers can help prevent future episodes, reducing the chances that they'll push you away again.
Provide support
Offer your presence, willingness to listen, and patience. Your continued availability and support may help the individual feel less alone and more grounded in their own self-worth.
Seek professional help
In many cases, people with ptsd need professional help to manage their symptoms and improve their interpersonal relationships. Encouraging the individual to seek mental health treatment can be an important part of their healing journey, even if they initially resist seeking help.
It's important to take care of yourself as well. Making sure to get enough sleep, eating well, and engaging in activities that help you maintain your own well-being is crucial. Additionally, taking the time to pursue hobbies and interests can provide much-needed respite and stress relief.
By recognizing why someone with ptsd might push you away and taking steps to provide appropriate support, you can help them navigate the complexities of their condition and establish a more stable and supportive relationship.
