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It is normal to experience some sort of emotional reaction when you have been exposed to a traumatic or stressful event. Most people recover from these incidents over time. However, a small number may experience an ongoing problem which may affect their ability to function in social situations at work, or in other important roles.
One out of ten people experience Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or commonly referred to as PTSD, at some stage in their lives. Being involved in or witnessing a traumatic or life-threatening event is one of the leading causes of post-traumatic stress disorder. Historically, post-traumatic stress disorder is a trauma-related disorder that has been diagnosed in combat veterans but also occurs after many other types of distressing events.
Signs and Symptoms
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a complex disorder that affects people differently. Many people experience some signs of post-traumatic stress disorder in the first couple of weeks after a traumatic event but most recover on their own or with the help of family and friends. For this reason, a person is not diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder unless the symptoms persist for more than one month. So what sort of things might indicate post-traumatic stress disorder? Some common symptoms include:
- Distressing memories or dreams related to trauma flashbacks
- Feelings of distress
- Physical reactions to reminders of the event
- Difficulty functioning in social situations and at work
- Persistently avoiding reminders of the event either internal reminders such as thoughts or external reminders such as people, places, and activities
- Exaggerated startle response or problems with concentration or sleep
- Heightened emotional or distress behavior within three months of the event
- Reduced interest in activities and an inability to experience positive emotions
- Irritable behavior or angry outburst
- Negative thinking and mood such as negative beliefs about one’s self and others
If you’re experiencing some or all of the symptoms and they persist for much of the day and interfere with your ability to manage your work or your relationship, consider seeking advice and assistance of a medical professional, such as Brain Wellness Spa. Treatment centers are available for anyone suffering from this disorder as they can help you on your road to recovery and assist to free you from trauma-related stress, anxiety, and fear.
Mental health issues should not be ignored as they can escalate quickly. If a post-traumatic stress disorder is left untreated, there’s a big chance that it could develop into a more serious mental illness. It is best to take the time to find out about mental health to better recognize the warning signs and take action. Remember also that it is not unusual for people with post-traumatic stress disorder to experience other mental health problems at the same time. While post-traumatic stress disorder receives a lot of attention in emergency services, people are more likely to be diagnosed with depression, anxiety and substance use problem. (See also: 7 Effective Tips For Making Stress Disappear)
How To Manage Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Seek Professional Help
Psychological intervention has been the most effective way to overcome the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. In the battle of overcoming post-traumatic stress disorder, it is imperative to not just stick to reaching out to your loved ones about how you feel.
A professional who specializes in curing post-traumatic stress disorder knows what steps to take to reduce the pain and anxiety you experience. Indeed, it is still best to have someone expert in this area to look after your true condition, assess your mental health issues and devise a treatment plan that will ensure to treat the symptoms of your post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Take Good Care of Yourself
Regular exercise and eating proper diet has shown to alleviate the common symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder among its patients, and in improving their coping strategies. In fact, maintaining a regular exercise routine can supplement therapy in the treatment of mild to moderate depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and, in some cases, is as effective as antidepressant medication.
The science behind this is the release of happy hormones, such as dopamine, endorphins, serotonin, and testosterone, in response to increased physical activity. Working out makes great impacts in your brain such as increased blood flow and the development of new neural pathways that fundamentally reduce the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Reach Out To Your Family Members
Seeking support and guidance from your family member and/or friend while undergoing treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder will provide a significant help in your recovery process.
Talking to friends and family about your mental health problems can be an opportunity to provide them information about the struggle you have been going through, particularly the signs and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder that impact your daily activity. This will allow them to understand your situation in order to make the necessary adjustments beneficial for your fast recuperation. (See also: 10 Natural Stress-Relief Hacks You Have to Try)
Ways to Help Someone with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Learn Everything About PTSD
Educating yourself everything about post-traumatic stress disorder is the first thing that you can do for your loved one suffering from this disorder. Equipping yourself with vital information, such as the signs, symptoms and recommended treatment plans will empower you how to be a better support and guidance for him/her. When you notice potentially troublesome symptoms, it’s helpful to determine if those signs indicate a post-traumatic stress disorder by suggesting to him/her to talk to someone expert in that matter.
Familiarizing yourself with this important information will broaden your knowledge and patience as you will understand what the patient is going through. Accordingly, you can be a better support system whenever they experience the symptoms associated with this disorder.
- Get Involved In the Healing Process
Being supportive and present during the entire mental health journey is one of the sincerest forms of love and affection you can provide to someone suffering from this type of mental disorder. Let them know that you have their back. Do things together such as exercising, and preparing healthy meals. Talk to them about the therapy and ask them how they feel about every session. Lastly, encourage them to be more gentle with their self and to trust the whole process because everything will be alright in the end.
About The Author:
Emma Clarke is a dentist by profession and an aspiring writer. She reads a lot and loves dissecting philosophical observations on classic films.
