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Post trauma stress disorder
My brother is 30 years old. For the past few days, he had been behaving strangely and even quit his job. I asked him politely what was going on, and he told me that he had faced sexual abuse during his childhood, approximately from the age of 13 to 17. He has been dealing with many physical and mental issues since then.
Now, whenever he sees anyone related to that place or even a photo of that place, it causes him mental distress. He told me that there's a photo of that place in our neighborhood, and a girl from that home comes in our house every day. He's scared that she might enter his room someday. Because of this fear and to keep himself safe, he left his job.
Is this phobia valid from a mental health perspective? Please guide me on what I can do to help him."
Answers (11)
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All of this fits trauma re-experiencing and avoidance, which are hallmark symptoms of PTSD. So yes, his fear is valid from a mental health perspective. It may not seem logical to an outsider, but for a trauma survivor, the brain reacts to reminders as if the danger is happening again right now. It wasnt laziness or irresponsibility that he left his job. PTSD can make normal functioning extremely difficult. If he feels constantly unsafe, his nervous system stays in “fight-or-flight mode.” Work, relationships, and even family life become overwhelming
Next Steps
Look for a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist who has experience with trauma and PTSD. If he resists, frame it as: “This is not about being mad. It’s about helping your body and mind relax from the pain you’ve been carrying.”
Health Tips
Respect his space – let him feel in control of his room and personal boundaries Reduce triggers – if possible, limit his exposure to reminders (like that photo in the neighborhood).
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It seems to be post traumatic psychological changes. It needs to be treated asap otherwise it may get complicated.
It can be well treated with counseling sessions and homeopathic medicine effectively and without any side effects.
It needs to be addressed in a holistic approach for complete recovery.
You need an expert psychologist who is a good homeopathic physician.
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I have been working as a Homeopathic Psychiatrist and Counseling psychologist for the last 17 years. You can contact me through an online appointment for further assistance.
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Hi
Thanks for reaching out. Your brother has been behaving strangely for the past few days. Your brother mentioned he has been sexually abused in childhood. It sounds like your brother is not able to get over what happened in the past. Based on what you have mentioned your brother will have to consult a psychiatrist. After consulting a psychiatrist your brother can consult a psychologist for counselling sessions.
Your brother can consult a psychiatrist first and then consult a psychologist for counselling sessions.
I understand you are worried about your brother. You can check on him everyday and calmly tell him if there is something that is bothering him he can talk to you about it. It is important to know the kind of relationship he has with his family. It is important to know what has caused change of behaviour in the past few days. Try to keep your mind calm and create a positive atmosphere at home for your brother.
Next Steps
Consult a psychiatrist first and then consult a psychologist for counselling sessions.
Health Tips
Contact me for counselling sessions. Along with
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Hi
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psychotherapy
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session
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Yes, what your brother is experiencing is valid and can be understood through the lens of trauma and post-traumatic stress. His reactions suggest he’s still deeply affected by the abuse, and certain triggers are bringing those painful memories back, making him feel unsafe even now.
The best way to support him would be to gently encourage him to speak with a trauma-informed psychologist. Therapy, can help him process what happened and reduce the intense fear and distress he feels.
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Hi, Consult a psychologist
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Hi
Yes, your brother’s fear is valid from a mental health perspective. His reactions distress around reminders of past abuse, fear of certain people or places, and quitting his job for safety point to trauma or PTSD. His brain still perceives danger, even in safe situations, which is common in survivors of long-term abuse.
To help him:
Gently validate his feelings without judgment.
Encourage him to see a trauma-informed psychologist.
Minimize daily exposure to his triggers (like that photo or person).
With proper therapy, healing is possible. Don’t delay seeking help.
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Consult on nine nine two six seven two six zero six five
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Ms. Pooja Gupta
Counselling Psychologist
8 yrs exp
Delhi
Hi,
Your brother's reactions and fears are understandable given his traumatic experience, and they reflect symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or related mental health issues. His intense fear of specific triggers, such as the photo or the girl from that place, indicates that his trauma continues to affect him emotionally and psychologically. These symptoms are valid from a mental health perspective, and he is likely experiencing ongoing distress that requires professional support. The best way to help him is to encourage him to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, who is experienced in trauma and abuse recovery. Therapy approaches like trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) or EMDR can be very effective in helping him process and heal from past abuse. Support him with patience, understanding, and reassurance, and avoid pressuring him to confront his fears prematurely. Your support in guiding him toward professional help can be crucial in his journey toward recovery.
Next Steps
Consult with a Psychologist and a Psychiatrist
Health Tips
Seek Help
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Ms. Smriti
Counselling Psychologist
18 yrs exp
Bangalore
Connect with psychiatrist for diagnosis
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consult
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connect
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Mr. Gunjan Maithil
Psychologist
13 yrs exp
Bangalore
Hi...Please consult a Psychiatrist for a medical diagnosis. There is a possibility that he is experiencing a psychotic episode. If that is the case, medications become necessary to suppress the symptoms, so that psychotherapy could become effective. If this is a case of child sexual abuse/trauma, psychotherapy alone will be effective. If he is unwilling to meet the Psychiatrist, you can visit alone and explain his symptoms. The Psychiatrist will guide you well on medications and it's administration.
Next Steps
Consult a Psychiatrist for a Medical Diagnosis and Medications.
Consult a Psychologist for Psychotherapy.
CBT along with Interpersonal Guidance and Counselling is required.
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Mr. Gunjan Maithil
Senior Psychologist
Cell: nine six seven one three zero three one three four
Website: https://gunjanmaithil.wixsite.com/therapy
App: http://wix.to/fechb08?ref=cl
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