Serving in the military can expose a person to a wide range of traumatic events, from losing friends and fellow soldiers to surviving major injuries or experiencing the aftermath of an IED attack. These events can cause veteran trauma for years or decades after their service. While healing can be a difficult and slow process, here are some strategies that can help veterans cope with PTSD or trauma related to their military service.
Talk With Friends & Family
Even if you don’t discuss the particulars of your feelings or experiences, speaking with someone who cares about you and respects your perspective can help to reduce stress and anxiety while forming positive relationships.
Get Plenty of Exercise
Regular exercise can help to reduce stress, calm the mind, and release endorphins that improve your mood. Jogging, swimming, and sports are all good choices to challenge both mind and body, leaving you healthier and happier.
Eat a Balanced Diet
The foods we eat can have a huge impact on our health, mood, and outlook. Eat a balanced diet with plenty of protein, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, and keep sugars and processed foods to a minimum. Work with your doctor or a registered dietitian to ensure you are getting all the vitamins and minerals your body needs or are supplementing accordingly.
Get Restful, High-Quality Sleep
Sleep can have a huge effect on the treatment of veteran trauma. Make sure you are getting 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep a night. Establish a nightly sleep routine and avoid things that may interfere with sleep before bedtime, including cellphones or tablets, caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine.
Learn Self-Regulation Techniques
When you are in a situation that causes stress and anxiety, use techniques like mindful breathing and meditation to keep calm. Focus your mind on other things with exercise, music, art, journaling, and similar activities.
Avoid Alcohol & Drugs
Although drugs and alcohol may make you feel better temporarily, they can exacerbate the negative effects of veteran trauma, harm your health in the long term, or even lead to dependence. Find better ways to cope with stress, like exercise and meditation.
Work With a Professional
Don’t be afraid, embarrassed, or too proud to seek professional help. Look for a mental health professional who has plenty of experience treating veteran trauma and PTSD.
Veteran Trauma Treatment Solutions in Utah
If you or a loved one are affected by trauma related to military service, talk to our team at Deer Hollow. Located in Draper, Utah, we specialize in the treatment of trauma and PTSD, including veteran trauma. We feature inpatient, outpatient, and telehealth treatment options, and we focus on a holistic, evidence-based approach.
To begin your healing journey, call Deer Hollow today at 1-888-5WE-KNOW.