Alexithymia and PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event or events. It is characterised by a range of symptoms, including intrusive thoughts or flashbacks, nightmares, hyperarousal, avoidance behaviours, and negative changes in mood or thoughts. One lesser-known issue that can arise in individuals with PTSD or C-PTSD is alexithymia.

In the UK, studies suggest that up to 10% of the general population experience alexithymia, with rates even higher among individuals with mental health conditions or conditions such as Autism. The prevalence rate of alexithymia among people with PTSD has been cited to be as high as 85% in some studies.

What is Alexithymia?

Alexithymia literally means ‘no words for emotions’ in Greek. It affects an person’s ability to identify and express their own emotions, and can limit imagination so people must rely on what is known as ‘external oriented thinking’ meaning they use external signals to make sense of the world rather than following their inner guidance.  People with alexithymia often struggle to understand their own, and other people’s emotions, and may have difficulty communicating how they are feeling to others. This can understandably lead to a variety of issues, including relationship difficulties, feelings of isolation, and mental health problems.

The connection between PTSD and Alexithymia

Research has found a strong link between PTSD & C-PTSD and alexithymia. People with PTSD or C-PTSD are more likely to have alexithymia than those without the disorder. This may be due in part to the fact that PTSD and C-PTSD can cause emotional numbing, making it difficult for individuals to identify and express their feelings. Additionally, people with PTSD or C-PTSD may have experienced traumatic events that were so overwhelming that they had to shut down emotionally in order to cope. This can lead to long-term issues with emotional regulation and alexithymia.

The impact of Alexithymia on PTSD treatment

It’s important to be able to identify if someone is experiencing alexithymia, as the inability, or difficulty with understanding your emotions can have a significant impact on the success of PTSD and C-PTSD treatment. People with alexithymia may struggle to engage in therapy, as they may find it difficult to express their emotions and describe their experiences. This can make it challenging for therapists to help them process traumatic memories and develop coping strategies. Additionally, alexithymia can make it difficult for individuals to identify when they are experiencing symptoms of PTSD or C-PTSD, which can make it harder to seek treatment.

However, it is important to note that people with alexithymia can still benefit from PTSD or C-PTSD treatment. Therapists can work with these individuals to help them identify and label their emotions, which can be a crucial first step in the healing process. Additionally, some therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), may be particularly effective for individuals with alexithymia, as they focus on developing concrete coping skills rather than exploring emotions in depth to begin with.

How to support someone with PTSD and Alexithymia

If you know someone who is struggling with PTSD/C-PTSD and alexithymia, there are a few things you can do to support them. First and foremost, it is important to be patient and understanding. People with alexithymia may struggle to communicate their emotions, but this does not mean they are not feeling them. Encourage the person to seek treatment and offer to help them find a therapist who specializes in working with individuals with PTSD or C-PTSD and alexithymia.

It can also be helpful to focus on coping strategies, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, journaling, and other relaxation techniques to help with emotional awareness and regulation. These strategies can help individuals with PTSD or C-PTSD and alexithymia to manage their symptoms in a tangible way, even if they struggle to identify and label their emotions.

Alexithymia is a complex condition that can have a significant impact on individuals with PTSD or C-PTSD. However, with the right treatment and support, you can ease the symptoms and improve your quality of life. By understanding the connection between PTSD and alexithymia, we can work to provide more effective and compassionate care for those who need it.