Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can affect individuals who have experienced a traumatic event. This condition can manifest in various ways, including intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and emotional numbness.
Coping with PTSD can be challenging, but several strategies and treatments are available to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Here at NOSA CBT, we can provide excellent professional support to help with PTSD, but there are also some steps that you can take for yourself to make the process easier. For a clearer overview of symptoms and recovery, see our understanding of PTSD guide.
PTSD can involve intrusive memories, nightmares, avoidance, emotional numbing and a continuing sense of danger after trauma.
Sleep, routine, physical activity and supportive relationships can help with general wellbeing, but they are not replacements for trauma-focused treatment.
Grounding or mindfulness may help some people reconnect with the present, although these approaches should be adapted if focusing inward increases distress.
Learning about trauma responses can reduce shame and help symptoms feel more understandable.
Trauma-focused CBT and EMDR are recognised psychological treatments for PTSD.
Medication may be considered for some people, but decisions should be made with a GP or another qualified prescriber.
Recovery is individual and does not require forgetting what happened. Treatment focuses on reducing the present-day hold of the trauma.
Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and progressive muscle relaxation, can help manage the stress and anxiety associated with PTSD.
These practices can help individuals stay grounded in the present moment and reduce the frequency and intensity of intrusive thoughts. They can also help you to develop a better understanding of your own thoughts and feelings, which is ideal for those struggling with their mental health.
Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to have a positive impact on mental health. Exercise can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve sleep quality, and boost overall well-being.
Additionally, maintaining a balanced diet and getting adequate sleep are essential for managing PTSD symptoms.
Creating a structured daily routine can provide stability and predictability, which can be especially helpful for individuals with PTSD. A routine can include designated times for self-care, work or school commitments, exercise, and relaxation. This structure can help individuals regain a sense of control over their lives.
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Learning about PTSD and its symptoms can be empowering. Understanding the nature of the condition and the treatment options available can help individuals make informed decisions about their care. It can also reduce feelings of shame or self-blame that sometimes accompany PTSD. Our guide on PTSD or anxiety can help clarify what you’re experiencing and what support might fit.
The first step in truly managing PTSD is to seek professional therapy services. A mental health specialist, such as the talking therapists at NOSA, can provide you with the necessary tools and therapies to address your symptoms. Evidence-based treatments like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR), and exposure therapy have been proven effective in helping individuals manage PTSD.
Here at NOSA, we specialise in providing CBT treatments to those living with anxiety, stress, PTSD, and other anxiety-related issues. We strongly encourage anyone who is living with PTSD to get in touch with our friendly team to see how we can help you.
In some cases, once other methods have been tried, medication may be prescribed to alleviate specific symptoms of PTSD, such as anxiety or depression. Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can help regulate mood and reduce the intensity of symptoms. However, medication is typically used in conjunction with psychotherapy for the most comprehensive treatment and only when it is considered necessary.
For more information on medication, consult your GP.
It’s important to remember that recovery from PTSD is a process that takes time. What works best may vary from person to person, and you must be patient with yourself as you navigate the healing journey. Additionally, if you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, it’s essential to seek help from a qualified mental health professional who can provide personalised guidance and support.
PTSD is treatable, and with the right interventions, individuals can regain control over their lives and experience improved mental well-being. NOSA is here to support you with your PTSD journey with cost-effective therapy.
Some people find that symptoms reduce with time and support. However, persistent or disruptive PTSD symptoms often benefit from a professional assessment and evidence-based trauma treatment. Everyday wellbeing strategies can support recovery but may not address trauma memories and avoidance fully.
Mindfulness or grounding can help some people notice the present environment and respond differently to distress. For others, focusing closely on internal sensations or memories can feel difficult, so these methods should be used flexibly rather than treated as essential.
Physical activity can support sleep, mood and general wellbeing, but it is not a standalone treatment for PTSD. It may be useful alongside psychological therapy and other appropriate support.
Recommended psychological treatments can include trauma-focused CBT and eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing, known as EMDR. The most suitable approach depends on the person, their symptoms and a clinical assessment.
Medication may be offered to some people, often to help with PTSD symptoms or associated depression or anxiety. It should be discussed with a GP or another qualified prescriber, including possible benefits, side effects and other treatment options.
This page is for general information and education. It is not personalised advice, diagnosis, or a substitute for professional assessment.
NOSA CBT offers evidence-based therapy for OCD, hoarding help, phobias, health anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD, panic disorder, and generalised anxiety disorder. We also provide a specialist OCD clinic, professional CBT supervision training, and CBT training and teaching for mental health professionals.
Get in touch today to find out how we can help.
