The last few years have been a roller coaster ride, to say the least. It all started when I noticed that something wasn’t quite right with me and I was feeling more anxious than usual. After consulting with a doctor, I learned that I had Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and was diagnosed according to DSM-IV criteria.
Managing my PTSD has been a challenge but a very rewarding journey. Initially, the process of being diagnosed was quite frightening – suddenly, it felt like another part of my identity had emerged and my life would never again be the same as before. But now I’m grateful for this diagnosis because it has allowed me to get the help and support that I did not even know existed or that I could ask for.
I have attended therapy sessions as well as group psychotherapy programs specially designed for those with PTSD; these treatments have helped me gain insight into the causes of my disorder and what triggers to look out for in order to keep myself emotionally balanced. Through practice and repetition, I am starting to slowly gain control over my symptoms.
In addition to traditional therapies like CBT, PTSD can also be managed through natural means such as exercise, massage therapy, small changes in lifestyle, meditation/relaxation techniques etc., which produces positive effects on mood and quality of life in general. Although there is no definite cure-all for PTSD yet and every individual experiences it differently from one another, having good support around you really helps in this process – so talk about your struggles whenever you can!