Post-traumatic stress disorder can happen after someone experiences or witnesses traumatic events, such as those during military service. Managing PTSD after leaving the military can be challenging, but there are several effective strategies and treatments that can help.
Understanding PTSD
PTSD causes intrusive symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and distressing thoughts about the traumatic event. It also leads to avoidance of anything related to the trauma, emotional numbness, feeling constantly on edge, difficulty sleeping, and concentrating.
These symptoms are the mind and body’s natural response to dealing with trauma. But in PTSD they persist for months or years after the traumatic event and significantly impact daily life and functioning. Understanding that PTSD is a recognised medical condition and not a personal weakness is an important first step.
Seeking Professional Help
It is highly recommended that ex-military personnel seek professional treatment for PTSD. The main treatments are psychotherapy, medication, and support groups.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) helps manage PTSD by changing unhelpful thought patterns about the trauma. Exposure therapy also provides a safe way to confront trauma-related memories and situations. Medications like antidepressants and anti-anxiety drugs can relieve symptoms.
Support groups connect with others experiencing PTSD. This provides a space to share experiences and effective coping strategies. Charities like Combat Stress provide specialised treatment programmes and helplines for veterans.
Making Lifestyle Changes
There are also many lifestyle changes that can complement treatment and make living with PTSD more manageable:
- Relaxation techniques – Activities like deep breathing, meditation, yoga, massage therapy, and tai chi promote relaxation. This reduces overall stress and anxiety levels.
- Exercise – Aerobic exercise and strength training releases endorphins which relieve negative emotions. Outdoor activities can also be calming.
- Healthy diet – Eating more whole foods and fewer processed foods can improve mood and overall well-being. Limit caffeine and alcohol which worsen anxiety.
- Sleep hygiene – Having a regular sleep routine and limiting electronics before bed can improve sleep quality, which is often disrupted by PTSD.
- Support network – Spend time with close friends and family who provide positive support. Share feelings and lean on loved ones to work through difficult moments.
- Avoid isolation – Making an effort to engage in social activities despite avoiding triggers helps recover a sense of normalcy.
Utilising Available Resources
There are many resources available to help veterans manage their PTSD:
- Veterans UK provides services like counselling and assistance in claiming government benefits.
- The NHS offers programmes to improve access to mental health services for veterans.
- Charities like Help for Heroes fund professional support, sports recovery programmes, career guidance, and adventure training.
- Support groups like Walking With The Wounded connect veterans experiencing PTSD.
- Online forums enable anonymously sharing experiences and advice about life after service.
There are also private counselling and private military therapy services designed to help armed forces mental health. Private military therapy services tailored for veterans are useful if you need help with PTSD but waiting lists for NHS mental help services are long in your area.
Staying Hopeful
Living with PTSD can be extremely difficult. But numerous effective treatment options and resources are available. Committing to a management plan while remaining patient with yourself and keeping a hopeful mindset will help you process trauma and regain more control over your life.
