Learning About PTSD 1

1. PTSD and nightmares go hand in hand. The nightmares are not even always about the trauma suffered by the person who ended up with PTSD. However whatever the nightmare is, it will always end with feelings of intense negative emotions the sufferer may find difficult to subdue. The nightmares in this case are the trigger factor for the PTSD responses of fear, panic or even increased stress during normal activities during the following day. Such days might be a good day to try one of my mother's recipes! Calm yourself with any coping strategy that has worked for you in the past. Controlling the symptoms of PTSD is not easy, I know, but we must be strong and determined to make the most we can of each and every day God gives us. 

Please remember: always seek medical advice/diagosis from a medical professional before any situation gets out of hand for you.

2. With PTSD, of course our nightmares/dreams can trigger some very intrusive thoughts during our waking/worrying hours. It is recommended by some doctors to develop some repetitive behaviours to reduce our anxiety. Sometimes, these repetitive behaviours are called avoidance behaviours. I call these behaviours my OCD. Since, as we all know, PTSD and OCD walk hand in hand—OCD becomes a way for sufferers of PTSD to cope with their trauma.

Avoidance Behaviours we can try:•    Organizing our belongings in rows or groups.•    Doing things in 2’s or 3’s.•    Ensuring that anything that is stacked is upright and tidyTry any simple things to ease your mind. Orderliness is OCD’s best friend. And, since PTSD and OCD are considered related mental health conditions, these simple activities which may sometimes seem odd to others, mean the world to us.

Always remember: if your symptoms seem overwhelming, seek  advice/diagnosis from a medical professional.

3. OCD in victims of PTSD is a way to cope with their trauma. But we must remember that PTSD cannot be cured. The hope for victims of this insidious condition lies in the fact that it can be treated. These days, the symptoms of PTSD can be managed with therapy or medications. However, victims must seek this therapy and or medications from licensed professionals. In my area, the Niagara Region Mental Health office is a place to start. Seek out government controlled Mental Health facilities near you and grab your future by the horns. Improve your quality of life before depression, anxiety or maybe even substance abuse claim you.

I wrote a post on facebook one time about how my writing was a salve and coping mechanism for me to deal with my own PTSD and "Steve" answered me thus: "Instead of talking about it, you should be micro-dosing meth." I immediately felt for him. He was on the wrong path and I hope he finds his way before meth numbs him to everything but his need for it. I hope "Steve" finds the strength to tap into the mental health agencies ready to help him before it is too late for him. And always remember, thoughts of suicide should immediately lead to professional help. Do not wait.

4. It is also a fact that the recovery process for PTSD can look different for each sufferer. This is because the factors affecting recovery from this condition also differ for everyone. 

Factors Affecting Recovery from PTSD:

• the severity of a victim's trauma since there are many levels of trauma which cause PTSD - you may simply be the child of drug addicted parents and the result was trauma to you

• your own level of resilience may also quicken or slow down your recovery time

• and, most importantly, the quality of your support system will also greatly affect your recovery - Always remember to seek  advice/diagnosis from a medical professional sooner rather than later.