Your friends and neighbors may also notice changes in your loved one. They may have questions about what’s going on. And, like you, they’ll want to know how they can help.
Talk with your loved one first. Before you talk with friends, ask your loved one how they want you to handle those questions. For example, they may not want you to share any details about their trauma. They may also have ideas for how friends can support them.
Share what you’ve learned. Your friends may also be struggling to connect with your loved one. You can help by sharing tips about how to communicate — and how to be sensitive and patient as your loved one works through their symptoms.
Here are some examples of how friends can support you and your loved one:
- Learning about PTSD and its symptoms
- Inviting you and your loved one to do things
- Listening, if you or your loved one want to talk
- Helping with everyday tasks, like babysitting or grocery shopping
For Local help see the “How can I get Help?” in this edition of “Veterans Chronicle”