Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a mental health condition that can occur after someone has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Symptoms of PTSD can include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and depression.
If you are struggling with PTSD symptoms, you are not alone, and there is always hope. In this article, we will discuss some strategies for getting relief from PTSD symptoms.
1. Connect with other people who know what you are going through
Veterans of combat and other traumatizing events often suffer from PTSD. This is a condition that can lead to a range of symptoms, including flashbacks, anxiety, depression, and difficulty sleeping.
While medication and therapy can be helpful, many sufferers find that connecting with others who understand what they are going through is also beneficial —sometimes even more so. Talking to others who have been through similar experiences can provide support and understanding, and it can help to normalize the symptoms of PTSD.
In addition, connecting with others can provide a sense of community and belonging, which can be helpful in managing the symptoms of PTSD. If you are struggling with PTSD, reaching out to others who understand what you are going through can be an important step in your recovery.
2. Talk to a therapist
Many individuals who experience a traumatic event will go on to develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These can include intrusive memories, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, and feeling constantly on edge. While these symptoms can be extremely disruptive, there is hope for recovery.
One effective treatment for PTSD is cognitive processing therapy (CPT), which is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy. In CPT, patients work with a therapist to process and make sense of their trauma. This can involve discussing the event in detail, learning new ways of thinking about the trauma, and developing healthy coping skills.
Research has shown that CPT can be highly effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD. For many individuals, it can provide much-needed relief and help them to reclaim their life.
3. Avoid alcohol and drugs
For many people who struggle with PTSD, alcohol and drugs can seem like a way to cope with the symptoms —and if we’re being honest, it seems to provide immediate relief, but causes far more damage in the long run.
While it may be tempting to self-medicate, it is important to avoid doing so. Alcohol and drugs can actually make the symptoms of PTSD worse over time, and they can also lead to other problems like addiction and depression.
4. Find relief with cannabis
Let’s not get these two things confused —cannabis and drugs. While the federal government still classifies cannabis as a Schedule I narcotic, when used properly, it is a medicine which can provide relief that many other medications simply cannot.
Not all cannabis will help with PTSD symptoms, however. It’s important to take the necessary steps to access medical marijuana in your state before moving forward.
There are specific strains that work best to help relieve symptoms, and you can learn more about them by visiting Veriheal. So visit a doctor, submit your application, and then discuss which strains will work best for your situation when you speak with the budtender at your local dispensary.
5. Learn to practice mindfulness
Many people who suffer from PTSD find that their symptoms are exacerbated by stress. One way to help manage symptoms of PTSD is to learn how to practice mindfulness.
Mindfulness is the act of being present in the moment and focusing on your senses. This can help to ground you in the here and now, which can be very helpful when you are feeling overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts or memories.
There are many ways to practice mindfulness, but one simple way is to take a few deep breaths and focus on the sensation of your breath moving in and out of your body. You can also try focusing on a specific object, such as a candle flame or a flower, and paying attention to its colors, shape, and any movement.
With practice, you may find that mindfulness can help you to better cope with the symptoms of PTSD.
Conclusion
If you are struggling with PTSD, know that you are not alone. There are many effective treatment options available, and with the right help, you can recover and live a fulfilling life once again.
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