Coping with a Family Member's PTSD During the Holidays

The holidays are usually a joyous occasion - a time for families to come together and spend time with each other. However, when a family member has PTSD, the holidays may become a stressful time for all involved.

A family member's PTSD does not have to negatively impact the holiday season. There are things that you can do to make sure the holiday season is pleasant and enjoyable for everyone.

1. Recognize the Effect of PTSD Symptoms
   People with PTSD may experience symptoms of emotional numbing. As the name implies, people with PTSD may have difficulties experiencing certain emotions, especially positive emotions. A person with PTSD may know that an event is enjoyable, but simply be unable to experience joy and happiness associated with that event.

   Given this, if you notice that a family member with PTSD does not seem to be enjoying the holidays, try not to take it personally. It is very possible that the family member's PTSD may be preventing him or her from connecting with positive emotions.
   
   

2. Avoid Large Crowds
   For some people with PTSD, large crowds can be very unpredictable and frightening. In a large crowd, a person with PTSD may experience stronger hyperarousal symptoms, such as hypervigilance. If you are planning on organizing a holiday event, if at all possible, try to arrange it so that the event stays small and only people that your family member with PTSD trusts and feels comfortable with those who are invited.
   
   
3. Give Them Space to Manage Their PTSD Symptoms
   PTSD symptoms can sometimes feel as though they pop up out of the blue. That is, it can be difficult to predict what may trigger PTSD symptoms. Therefore, make sure you give your family member the space to manage PTSD symptoms should they arise. For example, be understanding if he or she makes the decision to leave the room or spend some time alone. Respect their boundaries.
   
   
4. Communicate
   Talk with your family member about what they need to feel comfortable during the holidays. Discuss what may be stressful for them. The more information you have about potential PTSD symptom triggers, the better you both will be able to structure the holidays so they are pleasant for everyone.
   
   
5. Come Up With New Ways to Celebrate
   There are many ways to celebrate the holidays. If more traditional ways of celebrating are too stressful for a family member with PTSD, come up with new ways to celebrate. For example, instead of going to that large holiday party, volunteer your time. Helping others can be a wonderful way of celebrating the holidays and may also have a positive impact on a person's PTSD.
   
   
6. Limit Alcohol
   The holidays are a time when many people increase their alcohol intake. People with PTSD may be particularly at risk for abusing alcohol. Therefore, you should do what you can to limit the family member's exposure to alcohol during the holidays.

These a just a few things that you can do to help someone with PTSD enjoy the holidays. Most importantly, though, be supportive. In addition to struggling with his or her diagnosis of PTSD, your family member with PTSD does not want their PTSD to effect the family's celebration of the holiday season. Openly discuss and be validating of the difficulties they may be experiencing. Work with them to come up with the best way to celebrate the holiday season.