Singer Ariana Grande has revealed in an interview with British Vogue that she’s coping with PTSD following last year’s Manchester Arena attack that left 22 people dead.
It’s been just over a year since a man walked into the Manchester Arena on 22 May 2017 and detonated a bomb at Ariana Grande’s concert, killing 22 people.
Since then Grande has supported her fans, and the people of Manchester in every way possible – including organising an incredible benefit concert, One Love Manchester, for the victims and their families.
Now, the singer has opened up about coping with the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after last year’s attack.
“Yeah, it’s a real thing. I know those families and my fans, and everyone there experienced a tremendous amount of it as well,” Grande told Vogue.
“It’s hard to talk about because so many people have suffered such severe, tremendous loss … I feel like I shouldn’t even be talking about my own experience – like I shouldn’t even say anything. I don’t think I’ll ever know how to talk about it and not cry.”
She also spoke of a longer-term experience with anxiety. “I think a lot of people have anxiety, especially right now … My anxiety has anxiety … I’ve always had anxiety. I’ve never really spoken about it because I thought everyone had it, but when I got home from tour [in September 2017] it was the most severe I think it’s ever been.”
According to a study survey in 2014 by adult psychiatric morbidity survey found around 4 in 100 people suffer from PTSD at some stage in the lives.
“Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is used to describe a range of psychological symptoms which can follow traumatic events. PTSD can be triggered by anything that consciously, or unconsciously, reminds an individual of a specific trauma in their lives,” Stephen Buckley, head of information at Mind, tells Stylist.co.uk. “Symptoms can include vivid flashbacks, nightmares, lack of sleep and feeling emotionally cut-off.”
Seeking support is crucial in coping with PTSD.
“We would advise anyone who thinks they might be experiencing a mental health problem to seek support – speak to a friend or family member, visit your GP or call the Mind infoline on 0300 123 3393 for more information.”
In June 2017, Grande was made an honorary citizen of Manchester. And in recent weeks, the singer also revealed a worker bee tattoo behind her ear. The bee, a symbol of the Industrial Revolution-era of Manchester, also became a symbol of strength and solidarity in the wake of the arena attack.
If you’re struggling with anxiety or PTSD, or know someone who is, the following sites may also be useful:
Images: Getty
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