Lifestyle Changes Recommended for PTSD Patients
People with PTSD need to take active
steps to deal with their PTSD symptoms. Often these steps
involve making thoughtful changes in your lifestyle. By making
these changes, you can reduce your symptoms and improve your
quality of life. Here are some positive changes you could
make:
Have more contact with other trauma survivors
Other
trauma survivors are a good source of understanding and support.
You could join a survivors' organization. For example, Veterans
may want to join a Veterans' organization. By having contact
with others who have had similar experiences, you will no
longer be isolated. You will also begin to break down any
distrust of others.
It
may be hard to take the first step and join a PTSD treatment
group or other peer support group. You may have said to yourself,
"What will happen there? Nobody can help me anyway."
Many people with PTSD find it hard to meet new people. They
have trouble trusting enough to open up to someone new. Yet
it can also be a great relief to feel that you have taken
positive action. You will learn that you are not the only
one dealing with the types of feelings you have. In time you
may also end up being friends with another survivor.
Start exercising
Walking,
jogging, swimming, weight lifting, and other forms of exercise
often reduce physical tension. It is important to see a doctor
before starting to exercise. If your doctor gives the OK,
exercise in moderation can help those with PTSD. Exercise
may give you a break from difficult emotions. It may distract
you from painful memories or worries. Perhaps most important,
exercise can improve self-esteem. It may create feelings of
personal control.
Change neighborhoods
Survivors
with PTSD often think that the world is a very dangerous place.
You may think it is likely that you will be harmed again.
If you have PTSD, living in a high-crime area may confirm
these beliefs and make you more fearful. If it is possible,
move to a safer area. It may then be easier for you to rethink
your beliefs about danger. You may be better able to trust
that you will be safe.
Volunteer in the community
Most
people need to feel as though they can contribute to their
community. You may not feel you have anything to offer others,
especially if you are not working. One way survivors can reconnect
with their communities is to volunteer. You can help with
youth programs, health services, reading programs, sports
activities, building housing, and in many other ways.
Stay away from drinking and drugs
Sometimes
trauma survivors turn to alcohol and drugs to help them cope
with PTSD. While these substances may distract you from your
painful feelings for a short time, relying on alcohol and
drugs always makes things worse in the end. These substances
get in the way of PTSD treatment and recovery. Rather than
trying to beat an addiction by yourself, you may want to join
a treatment program. It is often easier to deal with addictions
if you can be around others who are working on the same kinds
of issues.
Invest more in personal relationships
Most
trauma survivors have a son or daughter, a wife or partner,
or an old friend or work buddy. Make an effort to renew or
increase contact with that person. This can help you reconnect
with others, which in turn helps you cope with PTSD. It will
increase the chances you have to feel good and have fun. Others
can offer you emotional support as you change your habits
and behaviors.
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