How to Deal With Posttraumatic Stress Disorder

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, is defined by both an event and a person's reaction to an event. It occurs when a person experiences or is threatened with a traumatic event. The symptoms experienced with PTSD, triggered by flashbacks, are exactly like the response during the trauma.

Instructions

• 1

  Talk to a doctor. He can get you started on the road to recovery. He may want to do testing to ensure that there is no underlying medical conditions causing the problems. He can also be helpful in locating good specialty doctors to deal with PTSD.

• 2

  Find a licensed therapist or psychologist. There are many who specialize in treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder. These professionals can teach coping mechanisms to deal with the emotions from the event, and help the patient understand their own feelings.

• 3

  See a psychiatrist. A psychiatrist is able to prescribe medication usually required in treating PTSD. These medications include anti-anxiety medications for stress and antidepressants, among others.

• 4

  Take all prescribed medications. Discontinuing medications is always dangerous without prior doctor approval. If there are any questions regarding medicine or treatment, make an appointment with the prescribing doctor to address them.

• 5

  Keep a journal. This can be helpful in getting emotions out. Writing is a release for many people. Anything from diary entries, to poems or even drawings in a journal help reduce stress.

• 6

  Join a support group for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder sufferers. Talking about problems with a group of people experiencing similar situations is helpful. Advice and encouragement are exchanged, and a licensed therapist or psychologist oversees the group.