Post-traumatic relationship syndrome (PTRS) is also known as “relationship PTSD.”
Here’s why it happens and how to get help.
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And for some survivors, the aftermath could mean having post-traumatic relationship syndrome (PTRS).
What is post-traumatic relationship syndrome?
She adds you may have heard it referred to as relationship PTSD.
Bonnie Scott, LPC, is a licensed counselor and the founder of Mindful Kindness Counseling in San Antonio, Texas.
An abusive relationship is the main cause of PTRS.
Struggling to process a particularly awful breakup, for example, doesnt necessarily mean you have PTRS.
Since PTRS isnt an official DSM diagnosis, some therapists just use the PTSD diagnosis.
Ive always used the PTSD diagnosis because trauma is trauma when it comes to my therapy style and theory.
Regardless of how you label it, your pain is valid.
No matter what the relationship or breakup looked like, breakups are awful.
Its understandable that they may affect you deeply.
So how is PTRS different from PTSD?
If PTRS is so similar to PTSD, why does it need its own subcategory?
Bonnie Scott, LPC, is a licensed counselor and the founder of Mindful Kindness Counseling in San Antonio, Texas.
Well, there is a difference between the two.
Thats not necessarily the case for people with PTRS,research suggests.
This is likely a result of how you were hurt in the relationship.
That said, there issomeoverlap between other PTRS and PTSD symptoms.
Its also possible that someone could have both conditions, Nichols adds.
Instead, Scott says people should focus primarily on getting the help they need.
So how can you handle it?
First off, Nichols recommendsfinding a trauma-informed therapistto get diagnosed and, most importantly, receive proper care.
Dont forget that the relationship you have with your therapist is paramount.
It may take you time to find the right fit, and thats okay.
Scott adds the importance of taking medication if needed and learning grounding skills.
Healing from an abusive relationship suckstheres no eloquent way to put it.
You shouldnt have had to go through what you did, both with your partner and after your breakup.
Try tobe compassionate with yourself.
Your feelings are valid and you deserve support.
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