Coping With Post Traumatic Stress

Horrible news is all around us; the war, terrorism, local crime. It can effect our mind, body and our spirit. Even our little children can become anxious and stressed by hearing too much about what is going on in the world. "Bad News overload" can cause some to feel the effects of Post Traumatic Stress. So, here are some things you can do to help alleviate your stress induced feelings of fear and overwhelm:

* First, Stop the Trauma! If you have control over what you and your children watch on television or read in the paper, limit those activities and replace them with activities that bring positive attitudes like Watching a gardening show or reading only the Entertainment section of the paper. Do the crossword puzzles and other mind bending games available. Just stop engrossing yourself in the worrisome events of the world!
* Use your support system, friends, family, and coworkers to talk to at your own pace. Be mindful not to say more than you are comfortable with.
* You are not alone, weak or crazy. Hundreds of thousands of people are being effected just like you are.
* Talk to other trauma survivors for support. When survivors are able to talk about their problems with others, something helpful often results. You may come to feel less alone, feel supported or understood, or you may get concrete advice. One of the best places to find support is in a specially designed support group.
* Talk to a doctor about trauma and PTSD. Part of taking care of yourself means mobilizing all the helping resources that are available.
* Practice relaxation methods. These can include muscular relaxation exercises, breathing exercises, meditation, swimming, stretching, yoga, prayer, listening to quiet music, spending time in nature, and so on.
* Increase positive distracting activities. Recreational or work activities can help distract you from your stressful memories and reactions. Artistic endeavors are also a way for you to express feelings in a positive, creative way. These endeavors can help improve your mood, limit the harm caused by PTSD, and can help you rebuild your life. It is important to emphasize that distraction alone is not enough; active, directly coping with the traumatic events and their impact is also important.
* Call a counselor for help. Sometimes stress symptoms worsen and ordinary efforts at coping may not be enough for you to heal. If you feel fearful or depressed, it is important that you reach out for help from a counselor, who can help you turn things around.
* Taking prescribed medications to tackle PTSD may be suggested. Many people with PTSD have found that by taking medications they are able to improve their sleep, anxiety, irritability and anger, or urges to drink or abuse drugs.
* Start an exercise routine. It's important to see a doctor before starting to exercise, but after getting the OK, exercise in moderation will help alleviate stress in a number of ways.
* Volunteer in the community. It's important to feel like you have something to offer to others and that you are making a contribution. Help with youth programs, medical services, literacy programs, community sporting activities, and so on.

You don't need to live your life constantly stressed and worried. Take a step now to begin getting your life back. You Can Do This!