Here's my two cents thrown into the mix.

Basically, it depends on how much both parties want the relationship to work and how hard they're willing to work to meet that end. I've heard it only takes one person to destroy a relationship (not too sure about that) but I definately know it takes two people to make one work. Relationships, even under ideal conditions, are hard work. Throw in PTSD and it's even more work. Relationships that do not have a solid foundation built on support and trust have trouble withstanding other major life changes as well (i.e. illness, deaths in family, financial, careers, etc.)

My PTSD has been one of the toughest strains my marriage has had put to it. Just the sheer frustration of damn near everything changing so quickly when my symptoms went out of control. Me not knowing what's happening, him not knowing, having all of the rules changed and no one gave us a new rule book. Once my symptoms had gotten more under control and I was feeling better, I asked my husband why he stayed, why he put up with so much from me when I had been at a point I couldn't even control myself, felt like running because at the time it felt like it would have been easier for my family to not have me around. His response is something that I play in my mind quite a bit. He said 'I take my vows seriously. One of the vows was 'sickness and health' and you've been sick. Why would I leave?'

I've worked very hard to heal. I know I still have a ways to go, but I'm light years from where I was almost a year ago. One reason was for myself. Another reason was for my husband. I felt if he could put up with all he did and be there for me through all of this, then I owed it to both of us to work as hard as I could to get better.

The question presented was 'Can a relationship work if PTSD is suffered and healed within it'? My answer-yes, if both partners want it badly enough and are committed to each other.