Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that is extremely tough to deal with. This disorder is triggered by an event that can cause or has caused harm to the individual or someone they know. Even witnessing a traumatic event has the potential to trigger PTSD.
Individuals suffering from this disorder are most likely to experience severe anxiety, nightmares, and flashbacks. They also experience intrusive memories about the traumatic event that makes it difficult to cope with the disorder. It is essential to deal with these symptoms to adjust back into their lives. Here are some of the unconventional ways of dealing with PTSD.
Mindfulness
All of us have to deal with trauma, pain, and loss at least once in our lives. If we do not deal with it, it will most likely become a trigger and lead to post-traumatic stress disorder. The continued symptoms have the potential to decrease cell volume in the hippocampus and amygdala.
Mindfulness is the ability to be aware of the present moment, accepting it without any judgments. It increases the coping skills of the individual along with decreasing stress and anxiety. It has even been proven that mindfulness can change the brain’s connections, encouraging the acceptance of various traumatic thoughts and emotions.
Tai-chi
Tai-chi is an ancient Chinese tradition that has roots in martial arts. It involves slow movements along with deep breathing. It provides many benefits for which it is famous, such as decreased depression and anxiety, enhancing cognition, and even in dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms. Many people who have PTSD have vouched for the beneficial effects of tai-chi on their ability to cope with stressful situations and increase emotional stability.
Smoking weed
A lot of research has vouched for the benefits of medical marijuana, but two recent studies have also shown its role in decreasing the effects of PTSD. One proved that cannabis could reduce activity in the amygdala (the part of the brain responsible for feeling fear), while the other dove into the role of cannabinoids in extinguishing traumatic memories. One can smoke marijuana in several different ways. If you do not want to smoke joints, you can opt to go for cheap bongs perfect for carrying around. Marijuana also helps reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, all of which can accompany the symptoms of PTSD.
Mind-body therapy
Mind-body therapies are several healing techniques that focus on enhancing the body’s interaction with the mind to improve overall health and induce relaxation. These are safe techniques that are quite effective in improving coping skills and alleviating emotional and physical symptoms.
They include many techniques such as aromatherapy, massage therapy, guided imagery, acupuncture, and music therapy. A
literature review of previous studies published in 2014 concludes the beneficial effect of these therapies on stress reduction in PTSD patients. These complementary therapies are quite advantageous in increasing the overall quality of life.
Dealing with PTSD is extremely tough. There are many therapies out there, but what works for one might not work for another. It is essential to know about all the different ways in which one can deal with PTSD.
