Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe condition that affects many veterans, stemming from their exposure to traumatic events during military service. Instances like combat situations & training accidents can leave lasting psychological impacts. Symptoms of PTSD in veterans often can be severe anxiety & uncontrollable thoughts related to their traumatic experiences. These symptoms can be debilitating, making it hard for veterans to live a normal life after they serve.
How PTSD Presents in Veterans
Veterans with PTSD can experience different signs and symptoms. Here are some common ways that PTSD presents in veterans:
- Intrusive Thoughts: Veterans with PTSD often experience persistent and unwanted thoughts. These might come as nightmares, recurring memories, or flashbacks. For instance, a veteran might have frequent nightmares about a traumatic combat event.
- Avoidant behavior: Because PTSD can cause negative thoughts and feelings, people with PTSD may do everything in their power to avoid reminding themselves of the traumatic incident they faced. A veteran with PTSD might avoid meeting up with friends or acquaintances he made in the military because it makes him think too much about a traumatic incident that he experienced and leads to distressing symptoms.
- Mood and Thinking Changes: PTSD can lead to difficulty remembering details of the traumatic event, as well as feelings of mistrust, anxiety, and depression. A recently discharged veteran might withdraw from others, feel depressed, and lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.
- Increased Arousal: Veterans with PTSD often feel constantly on edge, as if they need to be on high alert all the time. This hypervigilance can lead to exhaustion and difficulty relaxing. For example, a veteran might pace at night or be easily startled by everyday sounds like a doorbell.
Therapy Options for PTSD
Therapy is the main way to treat PTSD. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective treatments. It helps veterans identify & change negative thought patterns related to their trauma. Exposure Therapy, a form of CBT, helps veterans face their trauma in a controlled environment. It helps to gradually reduce their fear & anxiety.
Another effective therapy is Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR). This specialized therapy helps veterans process & integrate traumatic memories, reducing the distress associated with these memories.
Medication for PTSD
In combination with therapy, a physician may prescribe medication to help veterans suffering from PTSD. These medications often are antidepressant pills within a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). SSRIs and SNRIs are commonly used to treat PTSD in veterans and non-veterans and can help with depression, anxiety, and more. Other medications, such as antipsychotics, can also be used in specific cases to treat veterans with PTSD.
Support Systems for Veterans
Support systems play a crucial role in the recovery process. Support groups provide a safe space for veterans to share their experiences & receive encouragement. Family therapy helps improve communication & support within the family unit. And, peer support programs connect veterans with peers who have successfully managed their PTSD.
Rehab for Veterans
At 12 South Recovery, we offer integrated treatment programs that address both PTSD & any co-occurring substance use disorders. Veterans addiction treatment is tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. Incorporating holistic therapies such as yoga, meditation, & art therapy can enhance traditional treatment methods, helping veterans manage stress & improve mental health. Effective treatment for PTSD involves long-term care plans. These include continuous therapy and regular check-ins. This ensures that veterans receive the help they need to maintain their progress & prevent relapse.
Contact Our Team
Treating PTSD in veterans requires a comprehensive approach that includes therapy, medication, & strong support systems. At 12 South Recovery, we are dedicated to providing veterans with personalized & effective treatment options. If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. Share this blog post to spread awareness, & contact us to learn more about our programs & how we can help.
