Post-traumatic stress disorder is a psychological condition that affects some people after passing through a traumatic or shocking experience like accidents, or loss of a dear person, or physical or psychological violence. The afflicted suffer from permanent recall of painful memories, and disturbances in sleep, and a feeling of fear or anxiety.
Even after the end of the event causing the trauma, but it is good that recovery is possible through following organized treatment and behavioral steps that help in regaining psychological balance gradually.
First: Acknowledging the feelings without denying them
The first step towards recovery is acknowledging what you feel instead of escaping from it.Confronting the painful feelings helps in reducing their intensity with time and opens the way for effective psychological treatment.
Second: Requesting help from a psychological specialist
Speaking with a doctor or psychological therapist helps in understanding the nature of the disorder and putting a suitable treatment plan,whether through behavioral therapy or regular psychological support sessions.
Third: Practicing breathing and relaxation exercises
Controlling breathing helps in calming the nervous system and reducing symptoms of anxiety and fear,especially during sudden stress attacks.
Fourth: Staying away from triggering stimuli and painful memories
Avoiding situations or places that remind you of the trauma in the first stages of treatment,with working on confronting them gradually later under the supervision of a specialist.
Fifth: Maintaining a regular daily routine
Adhering to a fixed routine for sleep,food, and physical activity gives a feeling of psychological stability, and reduces mood disturbances resulting from the trauma.
Sixth: Communicating with others and not isolating
Talking with friends or joining support groups for people who have passed through similar experiences alleviates the feeling of loneliness and enhances the ability to adapt.
Seventh: Writing and expressing the experience
Writing thoughts and feelings helps in unloading internal pressure and organizing thoughts,and also gives you greater awareness of the psychological stages you are going through.
Eighth: Practicing physical activity regularly
Sport stimulates the secretion of happiness hormones and reduces stress,therefore it is considered an effective method in the stages of recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Ninth: Avoiding resorting to negative habits
Like smoking or alcohol or isolation,they give temporary relief but they delay recovery and increase symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Tenth: Adorning oneself with patience and accepting the stages of treatment
Recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder does not happen between a day and a night,rather it is a journey that needs patience and perseverance, and every small progress is an important step towards complete healing.
Frequent Questions about Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Is it possible to recover from post-traumatic stress disorder?
Complete recovery is possible through regular psychological and behavioral treatment with continuous social support.
How long does the duration of treating post-traumatic stress disorder last?
It may extend from several months to a year depending on the severity of the trauma and the patient's response to treatment.
Does post-traumatic stress disorder lead to depression?
In some cases,it may lead to depression or chronic anxiety if not treated early, therefore rapid psychological intervention is advised.
Article Summary
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a painful experience but it is not the end of the road. Through behavioral treatment, family support, and practicing relaxation and sport, the patient can regain the feeling of safety and control over his feelings gradually.
Adherence to the treatment plan and patience with the different stages are the real key to reaching complete recovery and returning to a stable and balanced life.