Skills and Strategies for Coping with PTSD
Living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be challenging, but there is hope. At Repose, we understand the impact PTSD can have on your daily life, relationships, and overall wellbeing. In this blog post, we will explore what PTSD is, its symptoms, and most importantly, effective coping strategies that can help you on your journey towards healing. Our team of experienced therapists, who specialize in trauma-informed therapy, is here to support you in your recovery
Understanding PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Trauma can be categorized into two types: Big T and Little T traumas. Big T traumas typically refer to significant, life-threatening events like physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, military combat, or childhood abuse. Little T traumas, on the other hand, encompass repeated, ongoing stressful experiences or events that may not be immediately life-threatening but still have a profound impact on an individual's well-being, such as emotional abuse, neglect, bullying, or divorce.
Both Big T and Little T traumas can lead to the development of PTSD, as the brain and body's response to trauma is not solely determined by the event's magnitude but also by individual factors and resilience. It is essential to acknowledge that the impact of trauma is subjective, and what may be traumatic for one person may not be for another.
Symptoms of PTSD
Recognizing the symptoms of PTSD is crucial for seeking appropriate treatment. Common symptoms include:
Intrusive Thoughts and Memories: Repeatedly reliving the traumatic event through distressing thoughts, nightmares, or flashbacks.
Avoidance and Emotional Numbing: Avoiding people, places, or activities that remind you of the trauma and experiencing a decreased interest in previously enjoyed activities.
Hyperarousal and Hypervigilance: Feeling constantly on edge, experiencing difficulty concentrating, irritability, insomnia, and an exaggerated startle response.
Negative Thoughts and Mood: Persistent negative emotions, self-blame, guilt, shame, and a diminished sense of self-worth.
Physical and Emotional Reactions: Physical symptoms like headaches, stomachaches, and increased heart rate, as well as emotional reactions such as anger, fear, and sadness.
Coping Strategies for PTSD
Seek Professional Help: Connect with a skilled therapist specializing in trauma therapy, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). At Repose, we provide virtual and in-person EMDR services to clients in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, and abroad.
Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote self-care and relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, deep breathing exercises, and maintaining a healthy sleep routine. Take breaks when needed and be gentle with yourself.
Establish a Support System: Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, or support groups who understand and empathize with your experiences. Sharing your thoughts and feelings can alleviate the burden and provide validation.
Develop Coping Skills: Learn effective coping strategies to manage stress, anxiety, and triggers. These may include grounding techniques, journaling, listening to calming music, or engaging in hobbies that bring you joy.
Challenge Negative Thoughts: Work on identifying and challenging negative thoughts and beliefs related to the trauma. A therapist trained in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can provide guidance in reframing negative thinking patterns.
Build Resilience: Engage in activities that promote resilience, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, setting realistic goals, and nurturing positive relationships. Resilience can help you regain control and build a strong foundation for recovery.
Explore EMDR Therapy: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. Our therapy practice offers EMDR as a specialized treatment option.
Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine to stay present and reduce anxiety. Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or body scans can help you ground yourself in the present moment.
If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, regardless of the type of trauma experienced, it is crucial to seek support and guidance. At Repose, we understand the unique challenges that individuals face when dealing with PTSD, whether it stems from Big T or Little T traumas. Our team of experienced therapists specializes in trauma therapy, including EMDR, and provides a warm and supportive environment for your healing journey Remember, healing is possible, and you don't have to face it alone. CONTACT US to learn more how EMDR or TRAUMA THERAPY can help you on your journey.