(From the National Center for PTSD)

What can families do to care for themselves and the survivor?
Trauma survivors and their families often don't know what to do to care for themselves. First, it is important to continue to learn more about trauma and its effects. Some books are listed below that may be helpful. For veterans, educational classes may be available through a local VA Medical Center or VA Readjustment Counseling Service Vet Center (see below).

Treatment for PTSD is available in most communities through psychologists and social workers in private practice. Insurance may help pay for this treatment. Community mental-health centers and private mental-health clinics (such as those run by charitable or church organizations) may also provide treatment, sometimes at low or reduced fees. To find phone numbers for mental-health professionals, you can look in the yellow pages of your local phone book under "Mental Health Services" and "Therapists."

Family members of a traumatized person should find out as much as they can about PTSD and get help for themselves, even if their loved one doesn’t seek treatment. Family members can encourage the survivor to inquire about education and counseling, but they should not pressure or try to force their loved one to get help. Classes or treatment may also be useful for stress and anger management, addiction, couples communication, or parenting.

While in the process of getting help, if family members feel comfortable, they should let their loved one know that they are willing to listen if the survivor would like to talk about his or her trauma. But the family should stop if anyone gets too upset or overwhelmed. If everyone is able, it is also important to talk about how the trauma is affecting the family and what can be done about it.