PTSD Face Mask: I Witnessed A Murder
- Kiran
- Jun 23, 2020
- 2 min read
*Trigger Warning: This art blog is a depiction of a realistic fiction story that is closely related to post-traumatic stress disorder, or more commonly known as trauma. As such, the created artwork on the face mask has been exaggerated with blood, fake wounds, words, and drawings which may be triggering to some individuals, in addition to certain triggering events in the narrative. Please feel free to click away from this blog post if you think that this may be a trigger for you. Remember, your mental health comes first.
Artwork by Kiran. This face mask was used as a part of a PTSD Exhibition that was held at the International Medical University, Malaysia on the 31st of May 2019. Feel free to interpret this mask based on your own individual perspective.
PTSD: Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that is triggered by a recent or past terrifying or traumatic event, which results in flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, among a few other symptoms.
I was 24 when it happened. That was 6 years ago. I still carry the guilt until today. Why? Because my best friend was the murderer. And my other best friend was the victim. I have ever forgotten that day, and I don't think I ever will. It continuously replays in my mind like a constant loop. The arguing, the pushing, the shattering of glass, and then the piercing sound of a knife slash. Why did it happen? Because he wanted an intimate relationship and she did not. Why was I there? I forgot my keys at her place. He served his time in prison and yes I had to testify. Did I enjoy that process? No, absolutely not. I loved them both, but in order for one to attain justice, the other had to be held accountable right? I can't remember the last time I had a good night's sleep since that day. The array of nightmares are more than enough to keep me awake accompanied by a pounding heart. The sounds of glass and knives immediately signal a stream of flashbacks to occur. You can't find a single glass or knife in my house anymore. My age is catching up, I'm getting exhausted day by day. I refuse to take sleeping pills for a fear of him attacking me in my sleep. He is capable after all. I was diagnosed with PTSD a few years ago, and therapy has been helping a little. The nightmares have decreased, and I only stay awake a couple of nights now. I still have a long road ahead in recovery, but I would rather go through that journey than to have my life cut short.
REMINDER: This story is a realistic fictional narrative, however elements such as symptoms and context in which the story takes place is based on true factual information.
1. If you would like to know more about PTSD such as the signs and symptoms, causes, treatment options, and how you can help individuals who experience trauma, click on the link below:
2. List of PTSD organizations and resources:
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