Post-traumatic stress disorder is a common mental health issue affecting people who have witnessed or have been involved in frightening or distressing situations. If not properly controlled, it can severely affect your daily productivity and your overall quality of life. People who have previously or recently been sexually abused, physically assaulted, or involved in violence or accidents, are more prone to post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD symptoms might last for years. As a result, you might be tempted to use negative coping strategies that might become self-destructive in the long run. Read on to understand how a post traumatic stress disorder Flowood specialist can help you manage your symptoms.
What Are the Common Symptoms of PTSD?
PTSD symptoms vary in severity for most individuals. They often begin three months after a distressing event and might progress for months or even years. Some common signs of PTSD include intrusive, avoidance, arousal, and reactivity symptoms and those that affect your mood and thinking capability. Below are five effective ways to help you cope with these PTSD symptoms.
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Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness and meditation techniques can help you manage PTSD by focusing on taking short warm breaths in a quiet and relaxing environment. They can also help improve your overall mood, especially if you are depressed or struggling with negative and intrusive thoughts. If you have developed anxiety or other mental health disorders due to PTSD, mindfulness is just what you might need to be in touch with your present moment.
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Physical Activities
Being physically active and practicing enjoyable activities can help you cope with PTSD symptoms. Surfing, running, and swimming are some of the best activities to distract you from intrusive thoughts. However, if any of these activities caused your PTSD, it would be best to avoid them as they might trigger negative memories that could become dangerous. Talk to your doctor to determine which activities might be best for you.
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Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is a relaxation technique that lowers chronic stress and anxiety symptoms associated with PTSD. It involves using aromatic smells and oils to provide a soothing effect for PTSD patients. Aromatherapy allows your body and mind to relax, which is necessary for healing. Discuss with your doctor if this technique would be an effective option in helping you cope with PTSD symptoms.
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Support Groups
Joining support groups can help you get support from others which might be effective in helping you overcome the negative effects of PTSD. Support groups create a healthy environment to help you speak up about the stressful emotions you might be struggling with. Through a professional support group leader, you can learn various coping skills that can help you manage the troubling symptoms of PTSD.
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Art Therapy
Art therapy is a form of PTSD treatment that can help you cope with previous traumatic situations and memories by painting, drawing, coloring, and sculpturing. It is an effective method for managing PTSD for individuals who cannot verbalize their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Using art to manage your PTSD symptoms can help you neutralize a traumatic experience that caused a lot of emotional and mental distress.
If you suspect dealing with PTSD symptoms, do not hesitate to visit or contact Precise Research Centers, a mental health clinic in Flowood, Mississippi. Under Joseph Kwentus, M.D., a well-experienced and highly certified mental physician, you can effectively cope with any PTSD symptoms and get your life back. Call today or use the clinic’s online tool to schedule an appointment.
