PTSD Harry (was Re: "Some won't like it")

[pot_of_harry]

No: HPFGUIDX 129883

> > Tonks:
> > Basically Harry fits the DSMIV criteria for making that 
> > diagnosis, such as nightmare, flashbacks, irritability, 
> > hyper-vigilance, etc. I think that JKR has done a very 
> > good job of protraying someone with that diagnosis.
> 
> Kemper now:
> Though Harry may experience some of the criteria for PTSD, my 
> understanding is that it's not a 'disorder' unless it affects 
> two or more aspects of one's life: school, work, social, family.
> Which isn't to say that Harry isn't experiencing Post Traumatic 
> Stress...it's just not a Disorder.

 
Hi
Just wanted to make a note on PTSD - Much of the language in mental 
health seems to be arbitrary and any thing that fits outside the 
"norm" (whatever that may be) would be considered as a "Disorder" - 
I don't agree with that rational - especially when the reactions 
are completely justified from a traumatic experience, but as a 
rehab counsellor, you don't worry too much about the labels, rather the symptoms and experiences (even if they are subjective) are more 
important in trying to get some lives working in a more functional and productive way.  

Flashbacks are definitely part of PTSD - many people who have car 
accidents (and especially if they see death) have these experiences, 
although on a lighter side....Harry doesn't seem to carry the fear 
through him in comparison....unless someone can remind me 
otherwise...for example, he doesn't freeze up in shock, or suffer from anxiety...although maybe he expresses this through his anger????

pot_of_harry