2. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental
health issue that can emerge after an individual goes
through or witnesses a highly distressing event. Such
events may involve combat, sexual assault, or life-
threatening circumstances.
Soldiers are more susceptible to developing PTSD due
to the nature of their job. Exposure to combat, the loss
of fellow soldiers, and encounters involving injury to
civilians can all be profoundly distressing experiences
that contribute to the onset of PTSD.
Introduction
3. Some of the PTSD symptoms experienced by soldiers
Re-experiencing the trauma β Whether awake or asleep, a
trigger can evoke distressing memories, causing the person to
feel like they are reliving the traumatic event.
Avoidance β Soldiers often steer clear of situations that
remind them of the trauma. For example, some soldiers avoid
crowded places or loud environments. They might also avoid
discussing the event that has affected them.
Persistent negative emotions β Individuals with PTSD may
grapple with overwhelming negative emotions. They might
struggle to establish trust, experience guilt, shame, or find it
hard to experience joy or interest in things they used to enjoy.
4. Hypervigilance or hyperarousal β Those dealing
with hyperarousal feel consistently on edge and
uneasy in unfamiliar circumstances. They may opt
for a seat facing the door in a restaurant, remain
watchful for potential threats, or feel the need to
be close to an exit. This heightened alertness can
make it challenging to concentrate or savor
simple experiences. Sleep and relaxation might be
difficult, and irritability, anger, reckless behavior,
or substance use can become coping
mechanisms.
Apart from undergoing PTSD therapy, soldiers
have various effective strategies to handle post-
traumatic stress disorder, enabling them to regain
control over their lives instead of being governed
by their condition.
5. Lifestyle Adjustments: Connecting with fellow trauma
survivors and experienced soldiers, staying physically
active, maintaining a healthy diet, volunteering, avoiding
drugs and alcohol, spending quality time with loved ones,
and fostering a positive outlook on life can all contribute
positively.
Mindfulness: Mindfulness involves focusing on the present
moment rather than dwelling on the past. This can include
simple breathing exercises or concentrating intently on a
specific aspect of your current experience, such as a scent
or taste.
Cultivating Optimism: Actively seeking out positive aspects
in life that bring joy and peace can help shift attention away
from stress and anxiety. Reflecting on positive experiences
from the past 24 hours, no matter how small, can provide a
sense of happiness and contentment.
Some of these coping techniques are outlined below
6. Peer Support Groups: Connecting with
others who have undergone similar events
can create a safe space for soldiers to
discuss their traumatic experiences and
work through the intense emotions tied to
them.
Emotional Support Animals: Many soldiers
grappling with PTSD have adopted
emotional support animals that offer
comfort and ease in situations that might
otherwise trigger stress.
7. Conclusion
While protecting civilians, soldiers often go through tough mental struggles like
PTSD. It's our responsibility to provide the assistance they need for dealing with
PTSD and other mental health problems they might have.
At Solh, we recognize the significance of mental health, which is why we've curated
a range of powerful self-help tools designed to enhance your mental well-being.
Our offerings include journaling, goal setting, self-assessment tests, mood analysis,
and an extensive library of enriching content for you to explore and learn from.
Take charge of your journey towards personal growth and improved mental health
with our comprehensive self-help resources.
9. Join Us
IF YOU ARE:
MENTAL HEALTH PRACTITIONER
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MAKING MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
AFFORDABLE, AVAILABLE AND ACCESSIBLE
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