Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is one of the most difficult things to deal with.
When trauma happens, whether on the battlefield, on the street or in your own home, it can lead to long-term ramifications, including PTSD. No one who deals with PTSD will say that it's easy, and no one who has it will say that it's simple.
If you are not diagnosed by a professional, you should seek help rather than self-diagnosing because PTSD is related to many other mental illnesses and will easily be confused by those who are not trained to pinpoint the disorder. Your odds of recovering or coping are much higher if you have professionals on your side who can point you toward good treatment strategies.
Five Ways to Cope with PTSD
- Learn as much as you can about your illness. The more you know, the better you'll understand what's happening to you and the easier it will be to discuss your needs with a healthcare provider.
- Look into support groups and therapy. For many with PTSD, these are the best healing methods. Finding others who are similar to you and who suffer the same way you do is a great step toward recovery.
- Set short-term goals for yourself in regards to your PTSD and the limitations you feel it's placing on you. Remember the things you used to enjoy, and do those things again. Reconnect with family and friends that have been supportive to you in the past. Set goals of getting out the door so many times per week, of interacting with others more often, etc.
- Keep a journal or diary. When you write things down, especially your problems or worries, you help remove them from yourself. Often, "talking" to a diary is the most therapeutic thing a PTSD patient does. It can help you disassociate from your pain.
- Find a relaxing, self-esteem building hobby to go to when you need to get away from things. This will keep you from hiding beneath the covers or crying on the couch. It keeps you actively engaged in something and builds your self-worth.
PTSD is difficult but not impossible to cope with, and with regular effort you can get a handle on it.
