How To Deal With Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Unfortunately, some of us go through traumatic experiences that leave deep scars on our well-being. Occurrences such as witnessing mass deaths, being a rape victim, and physical abuse are some causes of PTSD. What is PTSD? Post-traumatic stress disorder refers to the condition of feeling hopeless and having flashbacks of a traumatic event that happened. A person with PTSD often avoids social events and feels lost and lonely. From time and again, the flashbacks get the best side of them, causing them to have anxiety. Most PTSD patients have been diagnosed with depression; unfortunately, some take their own life.

However, if you might be experiencing PTSD or know someone who is going through the same, here are four ways you can deal with this condition;

1. Talk about it

The first thing to do is find someone you can talk to. Identify someone who will not judge you but listen to everything you have to say. You can open up to a close friend or even a family member. If the family member can help you recover, so be it. However, the severity of PTSD also matters when choosing who to talk to. Some might require a professional PTSD therapist. A professional PTSD therapist will guide you and develop a treatment plan. When finding a therapist, research and find one known for their expertise and high success rates.

2. Exercise

When going through this condition, finding a physical activity you enjoy is advisable. You can enroll in a gym program where, besides dealing with PTSD, you will also be doing good for your overall well-being. You can also choose to be part of a yoga class, where you take your time to meditate and allow yourself to heal. Additionally, participate in social events such as concerts, hiking, and camping.

3. Get a service dog

A service dog for PTSD veterans has been proven to be one of the best ways to deal with the condition. It is normal to avoid being with others, but having a dog near you can help you fully recover in ways you never imagined. Dogs are loyal and compassionate canines. A well-trained service dog can cuddle with you and make you feel cared for. They are also trained to identify the PTSD symptoms, and immediately they do, they will do their best to make you happy. Most service dogs have also been introduced to seek help if the condition worsens.

4. Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy involves using infused oils, which provide a soothing effect to PTSD patients. Studies have shown that aromatherapy plays a significant role in the healing process of patients who experience PTSD. Smelling the pleasant aroma of sage, peppermint, lavender, etc., or massaging the oils on your body can calm you down and help the body and mind heal from a traumatic experience.