I Have PTSD, Now What? Healing From PTSD Trauma
It's dark. You're shaking—beads of sweat pile on your forehead. You feel on edge, frustrated, and exhausted. You're having trouble sleeping again. Another nightmare has woken you up. It felt so real this time. But it feels real every time.
Why did that happen to you? Why are you still thinking about it? It's haunting you. Will you ever feel better and normal again? Will you ever be the person you were before that happened?
How to Heal From Trauma
Healing from a traumatic event doesn't happen immediately. Some may be able to heal on their own, but it can lead to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder for others.
If you have PTSD, here are some steps you can take toward healing.
Be Patient
Healing takes time. You have to be patient with yourself. You can't circle the day on the calendar when you will be better. It doesn't work that way. It's not that simple or easy. Allow yourself the necessary time and energy to work through your healing process. It's a marathon, not a sprint.
Focus On Your Needs
Self-care is crucial in being able to heal. Focusing on yourself when suffering from PTSD can seem easier said than done. Try to focus on meeting your needs as best as you can. It will become easier with time.
Aim towards eating healthy meals every day. PTSD can cause you to over or under-eat. The stress and anxiety you're dealing with may even cause you to crave certain unhealthy foods or comfort foods. When you eat well, you feel well. Plus, eating the right foods will help put you in a better mood naturally.
Prioritizing your sleep can be crucial for healing, rest, and recovery. PTSD often affects sleep. It can cause problems for people trying to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Lack of sleep can cause more problems down the road. Try to aim for at least 7 hours of sleep each night. Creating a nighttime routine like turning off devices an hour before bed or making your room as comfortable as possible can help put your body and mind on a better sleep schedule.
Try Relaxation Techniques
PTSD can make you hold onto a lot. Memories from the fast, pent-up anger and frustrations. The weight can be too much to bear. Relaxing techniques can help loosen the grip. Try breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, or stretching. Getting moving by taking a walk outside or attending a workout class can also help ease your mind and relieve stress.
Lean On Others for Support
People experiencing PTSD need to work through their thoughts and feelings by talking about them. Reaching out for help doesn't mean that you're weak. In fact, it's the opposite. Knowing when you need help and asking for it is one of the strongest things you can do.
You have people in your life who are willing and able to support you through anything you're going through. As long as you're comfortable, talk it out with friends, family members, or colleagues.
A support group is a great way to connect with others who may be able to understand what you're going through. You may feel more comfortable reaching out to someone who has experience with PTSD. Or maybe you'll feel more comfortable discussing your PTSD with a licensed and trained therapist who can give you the best guidance possible.
How Trauma Therapy Can Help
I pride myself on providing a judgment-free and safe place for you to talk about your thoughts and feelings. I achieve this by allowing you to go at your own pace. You can choose what you share and when to share it.
If trauma has taken all the joy out of your life, I can help you move on from painful memories and reconnect with your true self. If you have questions or want to book a free 20-minute consultation, you can use the contact form.