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Overcoming Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, PTSD to Feel Whole and Happy Again

Overcoming PTSD after a particularly traumatic event is often a long, however, it is achievable with the right therapy . So, if you're a veteran suffering from PTSD , Vast Self has some helpful advice on how to overcome it.

Move those muscles

We don't realize how much of an impact exercise can have on our overall well being. For veterans, in particular, it is a highly therapeutic because regular activity has been proven to reduce stress and positively effect mental health. It is the perfect solution for those that may not be feeling quite themselves. 

Focus on your breathing

Breathing correctly is often also overlooked when you're feeling particularly overwhelmed, stressed out, or not in control of your mind, thoughts, and emotions. While feelings of excitement or fear can cause rapid breathing slow, deep breaths that can help calm you down and refocus your thoughts. Overall, simple breathing techniques can make a huge difference  when managing episodic PTSD symptoms.

Meditate or find ways to relax

Meditation can have different effects on different people. Whether  it's something like yoga that can boost productivity and calm your mind, or makes you feel more at meditating using scripture, it's about taking time away from the world and focusing on the beauty and simplicity of the present. For PTSD survivors overthink the future, meditation can be immensely helpful in setting their mind at ease.

Shift your mental focus

To put it simply, distraction is a great way to shift away from negative to more positive emotions. When feelings and thoughts start overcome you, do something spontaneous to help distract you from those negative feelings. 

Find a supportive network

Addressing  PTSD for veterans is a complex and lengthy process, so it is vital to get the appropriate help such as familial support or the advice of licensed professionals.

Why your environment matters more than you think

Sometimes, our environment can affect our mental health more than anything else, such as if your home is disorganized, cluttered, and just generally unpleasant to live in. Decluttering and reorganizing overcrowded spaces into something more inviting and welcoming can help calm your mind and clear your headspace.

Doing something as simple as creating a healthy and peaceful home environment or meditation space can help calm your emotions when they are threatening to derail you in the opposite direction.

In conclusion, the process of helping veterans manage and reduce the symptoms of PTSD must be handled delicately yet purposefully, however it takes small steps in the right direction to have the most impact and produce the most unexpected results. 

Here is a list links to free resources:

https://psychcentral.com/quizzes/ptsd-quiz

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355973

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355967

https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-get-tested-for-ptsd#ptsd-tests

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/tests/health/depression-test

https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/depression-screening#where-to-take-a-depression-exam

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20356013

Article by a Guest Writer Lucy Reed, Thank you.