For people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), every day can feel like a fight to survive. For some people, loud noises, crowds, and flashing lights can trigger debilitating symptoms. For others, PTSD triggers may be subtler, including smells or locations that remind the individual of the traumatic experience.

Saying the wrong thing can also trigger someone with PTSD.

PTSD Is Invisible

You might not always be able to tell when someone has PTSD, even if you know they've been through a traumatic experience such as combat, a fire, a natural disaster, or a violent incident. PTSD can also result from mass shootings, terrorist attacks, armed robberies, serious car accidents, a terminal diagnosis, the sudden death of a loved one, sexual assault, and many other distressing events.

For example, nearly one-third of women who have been sexually assaulted go on to develop PTSD.

What Not To Say

While there’s no perfect thing to say, starting with empathy is always a good approach.

According to experts, understanding helps people with PTSD feel more supported, which can also positively impact their treatment outcomes.

To be mindful and supportive, here are some things best left unsaid:

"My Boss Yelled at Me. I Think I Have PTSD, Too"
While being yelled at can be upsetting—and yelling can even be a trigger for some—comparing everyday stress to PTSD can be dismissive. PTSD is a clinically recognized mental health disorder and should not be taken lightly.

Developing PTSD involves enduring or witnessing a traumatic event such as sexual assault, warfare, serious accidents, or domestic violence. A typical bad day at work does not equate to these kinds of experiences.

Using the term in a joking or exaggerated way minimizes the seriousness of what people with PTSD actually go through.

"Shouldn't You Be Over It by Now?"
There are effective treatments for PTSD, but recovery takes time and varies for each individual. Some may be on medication or in therapy for months or even years, and learning to manage triggers can be a lifelong process.

There is no set timeline for healing. Many people continue to work through symptoms long after the traumatic event.

"Poor Thing, You Got Triggered! You Must Be Really Sensitive!"
Triggers can cause intense emotional and physical reactions, not just mild annoyance. For some, these reactions can be overwhelming and disruptive.

For instance, a song or sound associated with a traumatic moment can trigger severe distress. Being triggered is not about being "too sensitive"; it's a serious symptom of a real condition.

Assuming someone is fragile or broken because they have PTSD is both unfair and inaccurate. People with PTSD are often incredibly strong, having endured extremely difficult experiences.

"How Many People Did You Kill?"
This kind of question is deeply inappropriate. Many individuals with PTSD—especially veterans—struggle with feelings of guilt, including survivor's guilt or the belief they could have done something differently.

Pressuring someone to relive traumatic details can increase their distress. A better approach is to listen if they want to share and avoid intrusive or judgmental questions.

If someone opens up, a more supportive question might be: “What was your experience like?” Or simply saying, “I’m sorry this happened to you,” can be comforting.

"You Have PTSD; You Must Be a Veteran"
While PTSD is common among veterans, it can affect anyone. People often wrongly assume that only those who served in the military can develop PTSD, but the condition is also linked to a wide range of non-combat-related traumas.

Making assumptions based on stereotypes can contribute to stigma and misunderstandings around PTSD.

"Surprise!"
Sneaking up on someone with PTSD is never a good idea. Many individuals with PTSD are easily startled and live with heightened vigilance, especially those with combat experience.

Startling them can trigger intense anxiety, panic, or fear. Physical touch, especially when unexpected, can also provoke a strong reaction.

People with PTSD often need more personal space and may not respond well to being touched unexpectedly, such as a pat on the shoulder.

"Why Are You So Uptight?"
Symptoms like being jumpy or constantly on edge are part of the condition and not a choice. Even with treatment, some symptoms may persist or appear unexpectedly.

If someone with PTSD reacts strongly, it's important to offer patience and understanding rather than judgment. A simple response like, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean anything by it,” can go a long way.

Seeking Help

PTSD, sexual assault, and mental health are serious topics that require care and compassion. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD or trauma, there are resources available:

  • For PTSD support and treatment information, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

  • For survivors of sexual assault, contact the RAINN National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673 for confidential support.

  • If you or someone you know is a veteran in crisis, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.

  • In cases of immediate danger, always call 911.