PTSD

2. What is trauma?

Trauma is actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence. .[1] This can be from physical or emotional abuse. [1] It may also be an unexpected injury or accident. [1] Trauma can be experienced or witnessed. [1] You might even be traumatized when trauma happens to a close family member or friend. [1]

Trauma can happen to anyone. If you are a first responder exposed to violent injury and abuse, you are at risk for developing PTSD. You might be a nurse, doctor, firefighter, or police officer. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, you are even more likely to experience the trauma of sudden and unexpected loss. You may develop PTSD if you have been seriously injured at work, too. Click here for a great book on trauma, ‘The Body Keeps Score’: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/313183/the-body-keeps-the-score-by-bessel-van%20-der-kolk-md/

You may have heard of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). ACEs are traumatic events that occur in childhood. Often, people do not remember childhood trauma but they hold it in their body. Many people experience ACEs, which have profound effects on health later in life. Very few people with ACEs have full blown symptoms of PTSD. Unrecognized ACEs can make people with depression treatment resistant due to underlying trauma. Click here for a video by Dr. Rozina on overcoming adverse childhood experiences: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EoPXHrQ-22Y

3. What are some symptoms of PTSD?
There are several symptoms of PTSD. You may have some but not necessarily all of them. You might struggle with depression, irritability, and anxiety. Other symptoms are nightmares, flashbacks, or memories you try to block out. It can become difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. All of this stress can eventually make it hard to connect with family and friends. As a result, you end up withdrawing from social events or your responsibilities. Unfortunately, you might also have an unexplainable feeling that your life will be cut short. You can even become suicidal. In times of extreme stress, psychotic symptoms can come up. Hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia typically last for a short time. Remember that PTSD is a treatable disorder! If you have thoughts of hurting yourself or others, call 911 or go to an emergency room. Click here for answers on ‘What Is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder?’: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/ptsd/what-is-ptsd

4. How can you reduce your PTSD?
The first thing you can do is recognize it, so kudos for taking this step! Also, being compassionate and kind to yourself can go a long way. If you struggle with that, just imagine what you would say to your best friend. Staying connected with loved ones and engaging in self-care can be very healing, too. When you have a tough day, make time for something you enjoy or call a trusted companion. If you are already doing all of this, you may need a higher level of support through professional help. Additionally, it helps to know your triggers and tell your loved ones. Finally, take care of your mind, body, and spirit. Do this by eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and tuning into your spirituality. Whether it is meditation or going into nature, we all have a spiritual side that guides us through difficult times.

Mindfulness meditation will help you promote positive thinking by changing your attitude and behavior. It reduces your stress by transforming negative feelings. There are a variety of relaxation exercises and techniques your healthcare provider may recommend. These can be helpful tools you utilize anytime and anywhere. Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs also dramatically improves your mental health. Watch this video by Dr. Rozina on how to start practicing mindfulness: