PTSD Treatment Options

It is important for someone who is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to identify and understand  their debilitating symptoms and work on finding more effective ways to cope. While successful PTSD treatment involves psychotherapy and skills training in effective coping methods, alternative medicine, fitness and creative arts therapies have been shown to have a positive effect on PTSD patient treatment.

Alternative Medicine

Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been used for years to treat many PTSD symptoms, including pain, insomnia, fatigue and more, but it also helps with the regulation of brain chemistry and nervous system. This includes the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) which is responsible for stimulating activities associated with hyperarousal or stress responses. Treatments can be specifically tailored for individual symptoms.

Massage

Massage reduces anxiety, stress and depression through the power of the healing touch. It also lowers blood pressure, decreases muscle tension, and promotes deep breathing that aids in relaxation.

Somatic Experiencing

Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, somatic experiencing is a type of meditation technique that can help a patient cope with emotional pain. It allows the patient to tune into their own body and restore awareness, calmness and wholeness.

Fitness

Physical Fitness

Not only can exercise distract you from the source of stress, regain normal body function, and heighten cognitive abilities. Ultimately physical fitness allows you to gain control over your body and ultimately your life.

Yoga

Through the relaxation and breathing techniques of yoga, you feel centered and calm, which allows you to gain mental clarity. It also puts you in touch with your body and its strength.

Creative Arts

Music therapy

Through music therapy, PTSD patients are soothed and find it easier to identify their emotions and talk about their experiences.

Art therapy

Art therapy helps PTSD patients to express their inner selves creatively through painting, pottery or other artistic form. This can provide the patient with a deeper understanding their inner self.

In addition, many of these therapies, including physical fitness, yoga, music therapy and art therapy can be done in a group setting and teach PTSD patients how to build relationships with others who are going through similar circumstances.

Another thing to note is that PTSD treatment therapies do not have to take place in a hospital setting. Learn more about residential PTSD treatment facilities where you can focus on your whole self and begin turning your life around.