PTSD symptoms can last for months and even years in some cases. This is why it’s essential to take proactive measures to keep these symptoms in check and prevent them from getting worse.
If you have experienced any traumatic event recently, which could be anything from getting into an accident to losing a loved one, you may be going through a lot. Flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, hopelessness, loss of appetite, social withdrawal, sleeping problems, guilt, and numbness are some of the common symptoms you could be seeing. In extreme cases, some people also have suicidal thoughts, which demand the immediate intervention of a professional. A lot of people also indulge in drug abuse, which should ideally be treated by a substance use disorders services provider that specializes in such cases.
Visit a Professional
It’s always a good idea to approach a doctor before the symptoms possibly go worse. This is especially true if what you’re feeling has lasted more than a month now and instead of seeing improvement you feel stuck in the same place. Google “community mental health center near me” and get in touch with a specialist. Counselors and psychologists can guide you properly according to the type and severity of your symptoms. This is one of the best options to actively take control of your life instead of hoping that things would eventually get better.
Take Step to Feel Better
In addition to seeking help from a professional, you should also take other steps to improve your condition. There are several things you can do to effectively bounce back emotionally from a traumatic event.
- Go outside. Go on a walk. Don’t stay locked in your room the whole day no matter how comforting it is.
- Reach out to friends and family members for support. Don’t assume you’ll be imposing on them. A lot of people would be happy to support you during this time.
- Improve your diet. Eat wholesome meals that pack rich nutritional value. At the same time, stop eating junk foods.
- Exercising would be the last thing you want at present but that’s exactly what you need. Working out will help release feel-good hormones in your body.
- Slowly start doing things that you earlier enjoyed. You may not necessarily like it that much at present with what you’re dealing with but make small efforts.
These are a few things you can do to bounce back from the traumatic experience. You won’t see an instant improvement. Things won’t change magically and you won’t start feeling better almost immediately. It will take time. But it will all happen when you take the very first step. So, reach out to a mental health professional and seek their intervention. Don’t let this traumatic event shape your future.
