 Resources | Health News | Therapies | Fitness |
Resources | Health News | Therapies | Fitness |
Coping with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder |
|
Positive Coping Actions are those which help to reduce anxiety, lessen other distressing reactions, and improve the situation in a way that does not harm the survivor further and which improves things not only today, but tomorrow and later. Positive coping methods can include: Using natural supports and talking with those one is comfortable with - friends, family, co-workers - at your own pace, is strongly recommended. Following one's own natural inclination with regard to how much and to whom you talk is usually best for the majority of people. Learning about trauma and PTSD. It is useful for trauma survivors to learn more about trauma and PTSD and how it may affect them. For those with PTSD, by learning just how common PTSD is, and finding that their problems are shared by hundreds of thousands of survivors of trauma, they can better recognize that they’re not alone, not weak, and not "crazy." Talking to other trauma survivors for support. When survivors are able to talk about their problems with others, something helpful often results. Seeking out support from other trauma survivors, the survivor of trauma may feel less alone, feel supported or understood, or receive concrete help with a problem situation. One of the best places to find support is in a specially-designed "support group." Being in a group with other survivors of trauma with PTSD may help a trauma survivor reduce sense of isolation, rebuild trust in others, and provide an important opportunity to contribute to the recovery of other survivors of trauma. Talking to a doctor about trauma and PTSD. Part of taking care of oneself means mobilizing the helping resources around one. A doctor can take care of physical health better if he or she knows about PTSD symptoms, and doctors can often refer trauma survivors for more specialized and expert help. Practicing relaxation methods. These can include muscular relaxation exercises, breathing exercises, meditation, swimming, stretching, yoga, prayer, listening to quiet music, spending time in nature, and so on. While relaxation techniques can be helpful, they can sometimes increase distress by focusing attention on disturbing physical sensations or reducing contact with the external environment. Be aware that while physical sensations may become more apparent when a person is relaxed, continuing with relaxation in a way that is tolerable (i.e., interspersed with music, walking, or other activities) is, in the long run, helpful in reducing negative reactions to internal thoughts, feelings, or perceptions. Increasing positive distracting activities. Positive recreational or work activities help distract a person from his or her memories and reactions. Artistic endeavors have also been a way for many trauma survivors to express inner feelings in a positive, creative way. This can be helpful as a means of improving mood, limiting the harm caused by PTSD, and rebuilding a life. It is important to emphasize that distraction alone is unlikely to facilitate recovery; active direct coping with traumatic events and their impact is also important. Calling a counselor for help. Sometimes PTSD symptoms worsen and ordinary efforts at coping don’t seem to work too well. The survivor of trauma may feel fearful or depressed. At these times, it is important to reach out and telephone a counselor, who can help the survivor of trauma turn things around.
Taking prescribed medications to tackle PTSD. One tool that many survivors of trauma with PTSD have found helpful is medication treatment in partnership with their doctor. By taking medications, some survivors of trauma are able to improve their sleep, anxiety, irritability and anger, or urges to drink or use.
(Excerpted from: Saakvitne, K. W., & Pearlman, L. A. (ed.). (1996). Transforming the pain: a workbook on vicarious traumatization. New York: Norton).
|
This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this material to diagnose or treat a health condition or disease without consulting with your healthcare provider. Privacy Policy © 1998-2008 Personal Health Zone Click above for Service Agreement and Contact Information. Accessing this service binds you to terms stated. Advertisements appear throughout this website as a means of funding the site. This site is updated monthly and operates independently of any health associations or organizations. The owner of this site has no medical training and the information presented comes from government resources and health professionals in their respected fields. Home Page: Personal Health Zone |
 | We comply with the HONcode standard for health
trust worthy information: verify here. |