To undergo the military service is one of the most difficult things that can happen to a person. In as much as they remain great soldiers and citizens, most veterans suffer from major mental health issues including PTSD. PTSD is a severe disorder that reaches millions of veterans and subsequently, their social functioning in daily life.
-
PTSD
In veterans specifically, PTSD refers to events occurred during combat or military drills or any other difficult situation.
Various reasons make up the strengths and among the most popular ones are the following:
- Exposure to combat and warfare
- Witnessing death or serious injuries
- Surviving life-threatening situations
- Experiencing military sexual trauma (MST)
The first-line data of this function is if the one requesting help is engaged in high-stress or dangerous missions.
It is common people to link PTSD to the military, but not all the veterans who return from the battle field are likely to suffer from the condition. However, those who do may experience severe emotional and psychological disorders in case the condition is left unaddressed.
2. Symptoms of PTSD in Veterans
It is established that PTSD symptoms may manifest soon after the traumatized event or may be manifested after many years have elapsed. These symptoms are not of the same level of its severity and can function to the extent of affecting an individual’s normal functioning.
- Re-experiencing Symptoms (Flashbacks & Nightmares)
✓ That probably results into development of disturbing memories, nightmares, or even flashbacks in the veterans.
Fireworks, loud sounds, smell and crowded places are some common stimuli that may cause distress.
- Avoidance Behavior
Some of the symptoms include; staring blanking, avoiding people, places or activities that remind them of the trauma.
✔ Social withdrawal—distancing themselves from loved ones and society.
They are also likely to refrain from discussing the experiences because of the pain that the words may bring.
- Negative cog/logoutques Of Mood SWOT with Negative Mood Change
✔ Feelings of guilt, shame, or hopelessness.
✔ Presence of a low libido or lack of desire for sexual activities.
✔ Problem of not trusting other people and feeling estranged from one’s close ones.
3. The Impact of PTSD on Veterans’ Lives
However, if not properly treated, PTSD can severely impact a veteran’s personal, as well as professional, life.
- Struggles with Relationships & Family Life
PTSD has a tough toll on the marriage of many veterans as well as the relationships between them and their spouses, kids or friends.
Possibly they may push their loved ones away or struggle to express him emotions.
It is hard to keep connections as mood swings and emotional numbness.
- Increased Risk of Depression & Substance Abuse
✔ Many veterans who develop PTSD often suffer from depression and anxiety and turn to drinking or drugs to cope.
✔ Self may also take you to drug addiction or exacerbating of mental health problems unless treated.
- Employment & Daily Functioning Challenges
✔ Because of their inability to concentrate, irritability and sleep problems, PTSD can make it difficult to hold a steady job.
✔ Stigma and reintegration into civilian life might be difficult for veterans to deal with in social settings as well.
👉 Veterans can regain their lives with treatment at a PTSD clinic.
4. Treatment of PTSD in Veterans
The bad news is that PTSD can be partly or even totally prevented, but the good news is that PTSD can be managed and treated through various therapy options. It’s never okay for a veteran to feel like they should stay silent about the hardship of serving; they should never be ashamed to seek help and professional support will go a long way to improve their quality of life.
- Therapy & Counseling
✔ Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): The goal of this type of therapy is to assist veterans in changing the way they view negative thoughts and feelings following trauma.
✔ Exposure Therapy: Slowly exposing someone to overwhelming psychological memories in a safe setting to greatly diminish their emotional effect on someone.
- Group Therapy: Veterans hold forth together witnessing what others understand their struggles.
- Medication for PTSD
✔ For some veterans, antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications help to manage symptoms.
Always any medications can be prescribed by a veteran psychiatrist PTSD near me that specializes in veteran mental health.
- Holistic & Alternative Therapies
✔ Reduces stress & hyperarousal: Mindfulness & Meditation
✔ Physical Exercise: It has been proven through science that physical exercise helps in reducing PTSD symptoms as well as enhancing mental health in general.
✔ Therapy dogs and emotional support animals: Many veterans get relief of sorts comforting and emotionally, through therapy dogs or emotional support animals.
💡 If PTSD symptoms are affecting daily life, one should consider seeking professional care from a PTSD clinic or a psychiatrist for PTSD near me for personalized treatment.
5. Resources for Veterans with PTSD
Online Therapy and Virtual Psychiatry: If face-to-face sessions are difficult, having a psychiatrist for PTSD near me who will work with you through online therapy or most video chatting options will be a small option that could be more convenient and flexible.
Final Thoughts
PTSD is a very serious situation but if it is treated it can be cured for many veterans. A person afflicted with PTSD must study the cause of his symptoms at hand, ask for help from the same PTSD clinic and go into therapy. This will help with improved mental health.
🏥 However, if you or your dear one are suffering from PTSD, don’t hold it beating you up anymore, visit a psychiatrist for PTSD near me. That’s why you aren’t fighting this battle alone, and healing is possible.
