If you have been involved in a severe accident, you might have been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, usually shortened to PTSD. Many people believe that this is a condition that only develops in individuals who have been exposed to military combat; however, there are plenty of other traumatic experiences that could result in PTSD. For example, perhaps you were involved in a severe motorcycle accident or the target of a physical assault. Regardless, PTSD can harm your quality of life, so learn more about what you need to do to put yourself in a position to recover.
Different Types of Therapy
First, understand that different types of psychotherapy can help you if you have been diagnosed with PTSD. For example, one of the most common types of therapy is called cognitive therapy. The goal of this therapy is to help you address your thought patterns. For example, you might be afraid that negative things will happen again. Cognitive therapy is usually used alongside exposure therapy to help someone recover from PTSD.
Speaking of exposure therapy, this specific behavioral therapy can help you face future situations and memories that you might find scary. Exposure therapy can particularly benefit you if you suffer from nightmares and flashbacks. Now, it is not unusual for professionals to use virtual reality programs to help you confront trauma you may have experienced.
Medication Can Be Beneficial
Not everyone diagnosed with PTSD requires medication, but there are situations where medication can be helpful. There are different types of medications that you can use to address the symptoms of PTSD. For example, antidepressants, such as SSRIs, have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of PTSD. Some of the most common medications that could be beneficial include sertraline, also known as Zoloft, and paroxetine, which is also known as Paxil.
Anti-anxiety medications can also be used to help someone diagnosed with PTSD. Because anti-anxiety medications can be addictive, they are only used in specific situations. Your doctor will work with you to determine if the medications suit your treatment plan.
PTSD Support Groups Are Key
Support groups are not unusual to play a role in treating PTSD. You must attend support groups because it allows you to learn more about PTSD. You will realize that you are not the only person who suffers from this condition, and you will see that other people have had successful recovery plans.
Your doctor will also encourage you to take time for yourself. You must get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. That way, you use healthy strategies to cope instead of unhealthy strategies.
Work With a Professional Who Can Help You Address PTSD
These are just a few essential points you should remember if you have been diagnosed with PTSD. Even though PTSD can harm your quality of life, this is not something that you need to face on your own. Some professionals can provide a helping hand to those in need, so do not be afraid to reach out to your primary care doctor to ask for a referral to a specialist who can treat PTSD.