Through Beyond the Label, we aim to reduce stigma around PTSD through sharing stories of others with the condition. Here are a few stories that you can read to increase your understanding and awareness of PTSD.
After a suicide bombing in Manchester in 2017 that killed 22 people, Ariana Grande suffered from PTSD. She was physically unharmed by the threat from her concert but was greatly emotionally impacted, taking a break from her world tour. She then organised benefit concerts to support those affected by the incident. After the tour ended, Ariana's anxiety reached its peak, saying "It's hard to talk about because so many people have suffered such severe, tremendous loss... But, yeah, it's a real thing." Through her PTSD, Ariana suffered from severe dizziness and an inability to discuss the attack. Her trauma has changed her outlook on life, as she now has a heightened awareness of her mortality. Through therapy and music, Ariana has been able to cope with her PTSD and work through grief, depression and trauma, yet she is still triggered by certain situations to this day.
After the loss of his mother, Diana, Prince Harry suppressed his grief, leading to emotional numbness. He also felt helpless because he was under intense media attention in this deeply personal time. With a lack of support and his involvement in the military, Harry eventually reached a breaking point with his PTSD. Harry has described his symptoms as panic attacks, anxiety, emotional numbness and avoidance. In his 20s, he was close to a full emotional breakdown, often struggling with seemingly simple everyday tasks. Through open discussion and Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, Harry has been able to process his traumatic memories and now supports others with "invisible injuries".