How to heal from PTSD
Terror attacks do not just happen in third-world countries. In fact, the 9/11 attack proved that no place is safe. If you believe being American limits your risk or exposure to such attacks, you're mistaken for sure! Look around, and you may find a few victims and survivors who have already experienced the trauma.
It's daunting to deal with the aftermath of terrorist attacks, and the implications go beyond physical injuries. In fact, surveys show that 28% of people who survive such events develop PTSD. It means one in four people struggle to be the same. That's scary, right?
But you need not suffer in silence if you've been through a traumatic event like a terror attack. You can follow these expert-recommended tips and strategies to cope with your symptoms and start feeling better. Let's guide you and help you regain control over your life and emotions.
Start with physical recovery
Of course, PTSD is a mental health issue, but the first step to dealing with it is physical recovery. Did you know that pain can cause anxiety and depression? So you must focus on healing in the first place to get at least one trigger out of the picture.
Get medical attention immediately and follow the doctor's orders diligently, from your medication regimen to physical therapy and follow-up care. Another good reason to get proper medical care is that it helps you with the documentation you may need for a compensation claim later.
Acknowledge the mental health issues
Physical injuries are visible and evident, but mental health issues are less obvious. It's the reason you may miss out on the early signs of PTSD and fail to seek help sooner than later. Well, you've got to pay attention because delay only worsens the symptoms.
Start by acknowledging the trauma because it is absolutely normal to feel anxious, have nightmares, and experience negative emotions after a traumatic event.
Reach out for help
Once you know that you have PTSD after a terrorist attack, you've got to reach out for help without delay. Connect with a therapist or counselor who can help you develop coping mechanisms and work through your emotions.
Therapy is the most effective way to treat PTSD, so don't skimp on it. You may even claim compensation for the treatment expenses, which makes them easy on the wallet.
Regain financial control
Accept it- losing control over your finances can aggravate stress. Imagine how getting bedridden, staying off work, or losing your job can impact your finances. Seeking compensation is an ideal solution, and it may be possible for terror attack victims. For example, 9/11 survivors can claim it under the Zadroga Act.
You can get valuable insights from experienced 9/11 lawyers* and proceed with a claim with valid evidence proving your suffering. The act covers victims who sustained life-threatening illnesses like cancer due to toxin exposure during the attack. Besides a compensation claim, a side hustle can be your financial savior.
Practice relaxation techniques
Managing PTSD symptoms is easy if you learn to relax during stressful moments. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can calm your mind and reduce anxiety. They also help you sleep better, which is a crucial aspect of managing the condition.
You can use apps and online resources for guidance on relaxation exercises. Consider joining an offline class for better results.
Connect with your community
Social interactions make the best medicine for PTSD. In fact, you can do better by getting involved in your community and doing your bit to support others going through similar trauma. You may join a support group or volunteer for a local organization and find ways to give back.
These activities can be incredibly healing for survivors struggling to resume normalcy after a terror attack.
Avoid triggers
You've got to recognize triggers that remind you of the moments of the attack and loss. Avoiding triggers can prevent flashbacks and anxiety. While triggers may vary for everyone, they may include certain places, people, or events.
For example, watching a terror attack movie or news clip can bring the traumatic memories back again. Consider setting boundaries with everything that stresses you, even if it means spending time away from family and friends, leaving a job, or not visiting a place.
Dealing with PTSD after a terror attack is a healing process, so don't expect things to normalize overnight. Remember, it's okay to feel pain and fear. So be patient, accept the memories, and move on. You'll emerge as a stronger person!
