ARE YOU AT RISK FOR PPD?

Chronic pain caused by PPD occurs in the setting of overwhelming life stressors in combination with a personality that strives to be perfect and good. It is not a sign of weakness. The fact that you are still here to tell the story and still fighting for your health speaks to your strength, endurance and persistence. People who get PPD are often the most successful and reliable people. They get the job done and do it well. However, taking care of yourself is critical to good health. When one’s personal physical and emotional needs are always set aside for others’ needs, the body responds with anger and fear, setting the stage for PPD.

Risk Factors for Developing PPD

• Early Childhood Trauma
• Recurrent Adult Trauma
• Traumatic or Stressful Event Preceding Pain Onset
• A History of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety, or Depression
• PPD Personality Traits

PPD Personality Traits:

The People-Pleasers

• always putting others’ needs ahead of your own
• taking on responsibilities for others
• frequently feeling guilty
• not standing up for yourself

The Perfectionists

• Self-critical
• Overly conscientious and responsible
• Following rules strictly

The Achievers

• Having high expectations of yourself
• Putting lots of pressure on yourself
• Being hard on yourself

High Need for Acceptance

• Low self-esteem
• Wanting to be good and/or be liked
• Feeling cautious, shy, or reserved
• Tending to hold in thoughts and feelings

Prone to Fear Thoughts

• Often worrying and catastrophizing
• Having difficulty making decisions
• Having difficulty letting go
• Tending to harbor rage or resentment
• Hyper-vigilant – often scanning the environment for threats