Key Takeaways
Physical Symptoms of PTSD may include:
- Nervousness and anxiety
- Depression
- Suicidal attempts
- Mood swings
- Flashbacks
- Hypervigilance
- Nightmares and sleep disturbances
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PTSD sends us on a turbulent emotional journey, a relentless whirlwind that refuses to subside. It ignites an incessant worry, an unyielding restlessness that tugs at your core. Even without tangible cause, you remain apprehensive, uneasy, and perpetually on edge. Concentration wavers, irritability thrives, clouding the clarity we yearn for.
Physical Sensations of PTSD | An Internal Storm
PTSD symptoms don’t restrict themselves to the emotional realm alone; they spill into the physical realm with extreme intensity. Agitation, intense headaches, crying spells, panic episodes, and shakiness are 5 of the most common post traumatic stress disorder symptoms.
As unsettling as these sensations may be, take solace in the knowledge that they are only the body’s reaction to anxiety, not omens of doom.
Physical symptoms of PTSD may include:
- Nervousness and anxiety
- Depression
- Suicidal attempts
- Mood swings
- Flashbacks
- Hypervigilance
- Nightmares and sleep disturbances
Mental Symptoms of PTSD | An Endless Loop
Overthinking and catastrophic thoughts infiltrate our minds, a relentless presence that refuses to be silenced. Thoughts spiral out of control, a chaotic melody of what-ifs and worst-case scenarios. A never-ending monologue that stifles relaxation and contaminates the enjoyment of the present moment. This cycle exhausts us because it is an incessant drain on our mental resources.
Mental symptoms of PTSD can include:
- Problems with concentration or thinking
- Problems with memory
- Suicidal thoughts
- Obsessive-compulsive tendencies
- Paranoia
- Flashbacks
Avoidance | The Shackles of Fear
PTSD causes you to prioritize fear, entangling you in a web of avoidance behaviors. We instinctively shy away from situations or places that trigger flashbacks and anxiety, hoping to evade the discomfort it engenders. This fear breeds limitations, curtailing our experiences and leaving us feeling numb or detached from life.
Coping Strategies for PTSD | Harnessing the Power of Breath and Relaxation
Deep breathing exercises become our allies, soothing our bodies and minds in the face of panic and hypervigilance. Inhale deeply through the nose, hold for a beat, then exhale through parted lips.
While therapy and support networks are essential, incorporating practical tools like the Calmigo can greatly enhance our journey toward breath anxiety control and emotional well-being.
Calmigo is a portable device designed to help regulate breathing patterns and promote a sense of calm. Using a combination of scientifically proven techniques, including controlled breathing and calming scents, the device assists in reducing anxiety and panic symptoms.
Additionally, progressive muscle relaxation and guided imagery serve as powerful relaxation techniques to calm the storm within.
The Strength of Connection| Seeking Support
Seek Support — be it a cherished friend, a loyal family member, or a compassionate counselor. Sharing your burdens with those who understand can alleviate the weight of post traumatic stress disorder.
Detox Your Habits | Prioritizing Self-Care
Because substance abuse is common among victims of PTSD, nurturing your well-being is vital. Prioritize ample rest, nourish your body with a balanced diet and tailored supplements, and engage in regular physical activity. These practices, when woven into the fabric of your life, wield profound influence over the grip of PTSD and allow you to live with it and thrive.
PTSD Self-Care Plan
Stay active, engaging in exercise can not only improve your physical health but also help reduce stress. If physical activity is challenging, simply spending time outdoors and sitting outside can have a positive impact on your mental well-being. Research suggests that being in nature can be beneficial for your mental health.
Watch what you eat, it’s best to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine as they can potentially worsen anxiety symptoms.
Practice relaxation techniques, give guided imagery and deep breathing a try as these techniques can help your body relax.
Make sleep a priority, PTSD often accompanies sleep disturbances, so it’s crucial to prioritize getting enough rest. Strive to get sufficient sleep to feel refreshed, as it can assist in managing nervousness and anxiety. Increasing the amount of sleep, you get may also help reduce the severity of post traumatic stress disorder symptoms.
Join the Conversation
It’s time to hear your voice! Have you ever felt alone on your journey with post traumatic stress disorder? What are the symptoms you’ve experienced or witnessed? Join in on the conversation by sharing your thoughts, stories, and experiences in the comments below.
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I remember one time I was supposed to take an exam for one of my college classes. The anxiety was really bad. I started shaking and my appetite just wasn’t there, so I couldn’t eat anything before the test.. The professor even asked if I was ok. I know that most people get anxiety before a test, but I don’t think what I was experiencing was normal anxiety. I think for some people it’s hard to tell if what they are feeling is normal or not, and so many people might say they have anxiety when they might not actually have the medical condition.
Right, a lot of people assume that anxiety is just nervous jitters or butterflies so they incorrectly self-diagnose themselves as having anxiety disorder.