We have a goal in mind: your mind.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a psychological condition that describes the myriad of symptoms one may experience after a traumatic life event (or events). The WATCHDOG Project seeks to inform the public of the many ways one can end up under this umbrella, while highlighting resources available to help work towards healing.
Visit Printable for our custom worksheet that helps connect the dots between what you’re feeling and why you’re feeling it. We use only DSM-5 diagnostic criteria and a wealth of peer-reviewed scientific literature to inform so that you’re making the best decision for yourself. Be wary of any sites that don’t provide reputable sources.
There is no single way to experience trauma, and more importantly, there is no wrong way. PTSD is unique to each brain, and what may be severely distressing to one is not at all to another. By learning the many potential causes of this condition, it helps to raise awareness of its ability to affect anyone. All genders, races, cultures, ages, and socioeconomic demographics are susceptible because all it takes is a brain.
The WATCHDOG Project uses an acronym to organize the major categories of traumatic incidents that have resulted in PTSD. This makes it easier to see how many different life experiences can cause this level of emotional crisis. Please see the Facts page for cited sources and referenced scientific literature.
What WATCHDOG tells us about the range of experiences that cause trauma:
• W: war (includes events witnessed in service)
• A: assault (i.e. rape, violent home invasion, hate crime)
• T: tragic event (i.e. natural disaster, 9/11)
• C: childhood or familial neglect (for LGBT+ can include after coming-out)
• H: health condition (i.e. waking up during surgery, child’s cancer diagnosis)
• D: domestic abuse (physical or verbal)
• O: occupational hazard (i.e. police collecting human remains, hearing/ seeing details of horrific crimes)
• G: grief/sudden loss (not of natural causes)
This project was designed to inform and educate, not to diagnose. This gives you the tools you need to more thoroughly understand what it means to live with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. There is healing in knowing that you’re being represented, understood, and listened to. We hear you. Tell others you hear them, too, and together we’ll rewrite the PTSD narrative.
Help us raise awareness!
Question? Don’t hesitate to ask at thewatchdogproject@gmail.com
