Post war traumatic stress disorder is a medical condition that usually occurs when a person experiences very horrific moments such as terrorist attacks, serious injuries, military combat, or death of a comrade on the field. Because of the horrible things that they have experienced, victims might suffer from nightmares, emotional difficulties, sleep disorders, and other disorders that can gravely affect their daily lives.
Thankfully, there are various methods on how to deal with this problem. If you are experiencing post war traumatic stress disorder, or if you know someone who is in the same condition, here is a list of effective methods to help heal your psychological well-being.
Learn the Symptoms
War trauma has the same symptoms as any other post traumatic stress disorder incidents. It is imperative that you first learn the symptoms of your condition to determine if what you are experiencing is really war trauma or you are just upset. According to an article from [Mayo Clinic], the symptoms are classified in three categories: (1) intrusive memories, (2) avoidance and numbing, and (3) increased anxiety.
The symptoms for intrusive memories are:
- Seeing flashbacks of the terrifying events that they experienced
- Dreaming about the traumatic happening
The symptoms of emotional numbing include:
- Problems with memorizing
- Emotional indifference
- Losing interest in activities you usually do
- Difficulty in concentrating
- The symptoms of increase anxiety include:
- Sudden bursts of anger
- Self-destructive actions
- Excessive feeling of guilt
- Difficulty in staying asleep.
- Jumpy and easily startled
Stay Away from Alcohol or Drugs
These substances may help take the pain and sadness away for a little while, but an article from [Web MD] noted that these products will do you more harm in the long run. In addition, it can even make your traumatic disorder become worse. These are just some of the negative side effects of alcohol and drugs:
It can lead to substance abuse – a condition wherein these products become obstacles in building a good relationship with your family and friends.
You will become too dependent with these products that it will be so hard for you to quit them even if you want to.
Negative changes in behavior. You might become too aggressive or mean. There is a also a big chance wherein you will not be motivated to handle responsibilities with your family or work.
Keep in mind that the solution for healing your psychological well-being is not found on a bottle of alcohol. Only proper treatment and the right attitude can truly make you better.
Seek Professional Help Immediately
Aside from having a supportive family by your side, it is also vital for your psychological healing to seek professional help immediately. An article from [Help Guide] noted the following benefits of asking guidance from a professional:
- Earlier treatment helps prevent the anxiety disorder from getting worse.
- Helps repair your relationships with your family and other people.
The symptoms of traumatic stress disorder can have a negative toll on your physical well-being. If you get help immediately, doctors can help improve your physical health.
You’ll also be more aware of yourself. Through therapy, you can learn how to cope and control intrusive traumatic memories, builds the trust of other people, and overcome the feelings of guilt and shame.
When choosing a therapist, make sure that he or she has ample experiences in dealing with trauma. You can ask your doctor or other trauma survivors to give you recommendations. An important thing to consider is if this professional makes you feel comfortable and safe. This is important so that you will not fear the treatment itself. Remember that seeking help is never a sign of weakness and everyone needs it once in a while.
In a post from [Recovery Ranch], the author noted that there are studies which proved that exercise greatly reduces trauma. That is because these activities produce endorphins – a body chemical that give us a feeling of well-being. In addition, it also helps patients sleep better, improve one’s overall health and build self-esteem.
To Wrap Things Up
Keep in mind that it is really natural to feel stressed out, frightened, and anxious after experiencing a very traumatic incident. These feelings might take a very long to fade away. There will also be instances wherein you will feel a constant sense of danger. If you try to live with a more positive attitude and follow these simple tips, you will surely be able to overcome this problem and live your life to the fullest.
Do you know other effective ways to help other people deal with post war traumatic stress disorder? Feel free to share your ideas in the comments section! In the meantime, this video may help to provide some more useful information for those who are or who know someone dealing with this condition.