Image: Instagram/@maxenemagalona
Maxene Magalona assured people who have also been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that they are not alone and she relates with them.
The actress spoke about the mental health condition anew to mark National PTSD Awareness Day last Saturday, June 27.
She quoted the American author and psychiatrist Bessel van der Kolk on her Instagram page on the same day, to point out the strains of the said condition on the body: “Medications, drugs, alcohol can also temporarily dull or obliterate unbearable sensations and feelings. But the body continues to keep the score.”
Magalona then explained how she used to think that PTSD only affected members of the military who have been in “life-threatening” situations.
“Now, I am aware that it can affect anyone who has suffered a traumatic experience such as natural disasters, vehicular accidents, robberies, sexual assault, abuse, domestic violence, bullying or grief due to the death of a loved one,” she said.
Magalona first revealed she had the disorder last month while appealing to end the stigma surrounding mental health problems.
Citing the author again, Magalona pointed out that “effects of these traumas get stored in our bodies which is why most people who have PTSD are always on fight or flight mode.”
Magalona also narrated how she never responded to stress properly at a young age and later developed anxiety as an adult. She then stressed how she felt like “a prisoner of [her] own mind” and did not feel safe in her own body.
“Just thought of sharing this today as it is #NationalPTSDAwarenessDay so that those who may be going through the same thing can better understand what they’re feeling or experiencing especially during this pandemic,” she said. “You are not alone. I feel you.” JB
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