PTSD Facts
What does PTSD stand for?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Name one physical sign that your body is stressed or dysregulated.
Examples: tense muscles, racing heart, sweating, shallow breathing.
Name one example of physical self-care.
Examples: sleeping well, eating nutritious food, exercising, staying hydrated.
What’s one healthy way to say “no”?
Example: “I care about you, but I’m not able to do that right now.”
What’s one positive affirmation you can tell yourself?
Examples: “I am enough.” “I am safe now.” “I am learning to heal.”
True or False — PTSD only happens to people who experience war.
False — PTSD can happen after any traumatic event.
What’s one technique you can use to calm your nervous system?
Examples: deep breathing, grounding, mindfulness, progressive muscle relaxation.
Name one example of emotional self-care.
Examples: journaling, talking to a therapist, using affirmations, expressing feelings through art.
What do personal boundaries protect?
Your physical, emotional, and mental safety.
What’s one way shame can show up in your body?
Examples: slumped posture, avoiding eye contact, heaviness in the chest or stomach.
Name one common symptom of PTSD.
Examples: flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance, hypervigilance, or feeling emotionally numb.
True or False — Deep breathing can lower your heart rate and help calm anxiety.
True.
What is one social self-care activity?
Examples: spending time with supportive people, joining a group, volunteering, setting healthy boundaries.
True or False — Setting boundaries can make relationships healthier.
True.
True or False — Feeling shame means you did something wrong.
False — shame is an emotional response, not a reflection of your worth.
What does a “trigger” mean in trauma recovery?
A reminder of past trauma that causes a strong emotional or physical reaction.
What does “grounding” mean?
Bringing your attention to the present moment using your senses to feel safe and calm.
Why is it important to practice self-care consistently?
It helps regulate your body, manage stress, and improve mood and resilience.
What’s one sign that your boundaries are being crossed?
Examples: feeling drained, anxious, disrespected, or uncomfortable.
What’s one way to practice self-compassion after a trigger?
Speak kindly to yourself, use calming touch, or remind yourself, “This feeling will pass.”
Which part of the brain becomes overactive in PTSD and controls fear?
The amygdala.
How does trauma affect the nervous system over time?
It can cause the body to stay “stuck” in fight, flight, or freeze mode, making it hard to relax or feel safe.
What does “spiritual self-care” mean?
Nurturing your inner self or sense of purpose — such as meditation, prayer, nature, or gratitude.
How can setting boundaries help in trauma recovery?
It rebuilds a sense of control, safety, and self-respect after trauma.
Name one personal strength that helps you heal from trauma.
Examples: resilience, courage, honesty, creativity, or perseverance.