PTSD symptoms are wide-ranging and often include flashbacks, nightmares, intense feelings of distress when reminded of the trauma, avoiding activities or places associated with the trauma, negative thoughts about oneself and feeling emotionally distant from people. Other symptoms may include difficulty sleeping or concentrating, being easily startled, and feeling on edge.
If you have undergone a traumatic experience such as a car accident, a physical assault, an intense combat situation, or natural disaster, it is important to be aware of PTSD symptoms as they can surface in different ways for each individual person. Note that everyone responds differently to trauma and not everyone exposed to a trauma will develop PTSD.
If you are feeling overwhelmed with emotions and physical sensations that seem to come out of nowhere and/or have intrusive thoughts or flashbacks, you should seek help. In the military, we are trained to handle a variety of combat situations as individuals and as part of a team. Without support of the team the mission becomes impossible. The same is true when we try to fight PTSD. We cannot do it alone. We need the help of a team that is trained to help those of us that have experienced a serious trauma.
The VFR team has a proven record in reducing the symptoms of PTSD. During our last eleven retreats, veteran couples have experienced over a 50% reduction in PTSD symptoms. Their lives have been enriched. We call that Post-Traumatic Growth.
You may be wondering What is PTSD? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after someone has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as war, natural disasters, abuse, serious accidents, or other violent events. People with PTSD may have difficulty sleeping, feeling anxious or depressed, having flashbacks or nightmares related to the event, avoiding situations that remind them of the event, or feeling emotionally numb.
Indicators of the disorder can vary from person to person, but some signs of PTSD are common among those who suffer from this condition. These may include:
If someone is exhibiting signs of PTSD, it is important for them to seek help. Veterans Freedom Retreat effectively uses a holistic approach to PTSD treatment, which addresses body, mind, heart, and soul.
Remember, taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health and professional help can make a difference. Please contact VFR to make a difference in your life.
One of the most important steps in any PTSD treatment plan is to find an effective form of therapy. There are various PTSD therapy options available, and finding the right fit for you or your loved one will depend on a range of factors.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is another type of PTSD therapy. EMDR is a specialized form of therapy that uses eye movements to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce the intensity associated with them.
This type of therapy has been found to be particularly effective among those with PTSD, as it helps them to overcome their fear response and replace negative beliefs about themselves with more positive ones.
Group therapy is another effective form of PTSD treatment. Group sessions provide a safe and supportive environment where individuals can come together to share experiences, practice new coping skills, and develop support from others who have gone through similar experiences. Group therapy also allows for increased understanding between participants and offers comfort in knowing that one is not alone in dealing with PTSD.
VFR provides peer group sessions where veterans can interact with other veterans and help each other. Likewise, partners have their own peer group sessions where they receive support from each other.
PTSD is a serious mental health condition that can affect a person’s ability to cope with day-to-day life. It is important to seek help. Although we are trained to be self-sufficient, there are some things that we cannot overcome by ourselves. PTSD is one of those things. Just as we rely on a GPS to direct us to our desired destination, we need guidance to help us find our way out of the darkness that PTSD brings to our lives. VFR can provide that guidance.
Ultimately, working closely with a team that is experienced in helping veteran couples with PTSD is the best course of action. Remember that post-traumatic stress disorder is treatable, and you don’t have to suffer in silence. Reach out for help today.
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