Inspiring Hope International

Articles

What is PTSD?

It is quite common to associate Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (hereinafter PTSD) with war veterans returning home from combat. Recently, however, science is bringing to light the prevalence of PTSD resulting from non-combat situations.

At Inspiring Hope International, we want to remind you that you are the master of your own brain and body. What you define as trauma is your trauma, and no two definitions of trauma look the same. We want you to know you are not alone and there is help here for you.

The American Psychiatric Association defines PTSD as “a psychiatric disorder that can occur in people who have experienced or witness a traumatic event” (APA, 2020). PTSD can present itself through reexperiencing trauma here and now, avoidance of traumatic reminders, hypervigilance resulting from a persistent sense of impending threat (Mind, 2017).

While these are the most well-known presentations of PTSD, there is a spectrum of symptoms that may be present. If you struggle with any of the following symptoms, you may be unknowingly suffering from PTSD.

· Have an ongoing distrust of people and the world

· Difficulty regulating your emotions

· A continuous feeling of emptiness

· Feeling as if you are completely different from other people

· Finding friendships and relationships difficult, or avoiding them altogether (Mind, 2017).

The World Health Organization (hereinafter WHO) recently introduced two distinct trauma-related disorders in its 11thpublication of the International Classification of Diseases, or ICD-11. Under the general category of ‘disorders specifically associated with stress,’ the WHO outlines PTSD as well as complex PTSD, or CPTSD (Haselgruber et al., 2020).

PTSD and/or CPTSD can be caused by a singular traumatic event, but it is important to remember that singular events are not the only causes. Being harmed by someone close to you at an early age, experiencing ongoing trauma of any kind (physical, emotional, sexual), or repeatedly witnessing abuse can all surface as PTSD (Mind, 2020).

If you think you may be suffering from PTSD, there is hope and there is help. We are here to help you connect with effective treatments, financial help, and others who may be feeling the same as you.

Shelly Butts is a freelance web content creator from Houston, Texas. She writes passionately when not chasing around two active boys or pursuing her Master's in Social Work.

References

Haselgruber, A., Sölva, K., & Lueger, S. B. (2020). Validation of ICD‐11 PTSD and complex
PTSD in foster children using the International Trauma Questionnaire. Acta Psychiatrica
Scandinavica, 141(1), 60–73. https://doi-org.ezproxy.uta.edu/10.1111/acps.13100

Mind for Better Mental Health. (2017, May). Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
https://www.mind.org.uk/information-support/types-of-mental-health-problems/post-
traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd/complex-ptsd/

Jana Witt, Vice President

Michelle Arevalo, Board member

Jennifer Williams, Treasurer

Jana brings a heartfelt passion for mental health advocacy shaped by her own journey through depression. Having experienced these challenges firsthand and witnessed their impact on loved ones, she is deeply committed to educating the public and reducing stigma around mental health. Jana strives to help create a world where support is mor

Show Less

Jennifer Williams, Treasurer

Michelle Arevalo, Board member

Jennifer Williams, Treasurer

Jennifer Williams has a genuine heart for giving back and a deep commitment to serving others. Active in both her community and church, Jennifer believes in using her time, gifts, and talents to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those around her.

With a generous spirit and a passion for helping others, Jennifer brings her profes

With a generous spirit and a passion for helping others, Jennifer brings her professional skills as a bookkeeper to her role as Treasurer for Inspiring Hope International. Her attention to detail, integrity, and servant’s heart make her a valued part of the organization’s leadership. For Jennifer, giving back is more than something she does—it is a reflection of who she is and her desire to use her gifts to bring hope and support to others.

Show Less

Michelle Arevalo, Board member

Michelle is a vibrant, purpose driven leader who brings warmth, energy, and compassion to the Inspiring Hope International board. She is deeply committed to supporting mental and emotional well-being, especially for families navigating difficult seasons. She brings creativity, enthusiasm, and a service-focused mindset to the organization. As a mother and small business owner, she understands the challenges many families face and is driven to help create resources that offer real support. Michelle’s heart for uplifting others is at the center of everything she does.

Show Less

About PTSD

April Hart Dioses, Founder

Our Mission

Trauma can happen to anyone at anytime. Whether it is in the form of abuse, sexual assualt, loss of a loved one, a house fire, or even a car accident. Many who experience trauma will develop PTSD that can be life altering. We want you to know you are not alone. There is help and there is hope!

Our Mission

April Hart Dioses, Founder

Our Mission

Our mission is to bring hope to people suffering from trauma and PTSD by connecting them with effective treatments, financial help, and each other. We want you to know that you are not alone. We are here to help you connect and heal.

April Hart Dioses, Founder

April became a mental health advocate and life coach out of her own personal journey. While on the path of getting help for her own family, she met many others and her eyes were opened to the struggle of those suffering with PTSD. She has found healing for her family and wants to help others do the same!