PTSD/Mental Health

Ever wonder how strong your mind is? You never know how strong the mind is and how much control the mind can over the body. Ever think something is not right, then you start to feel the nerves in your stomach. Next thing you know your breathing is shallow. Now your mind is worried about your breathing- you have officially given yourself a panic attack. All because you thought something negative, now not only is your mind going through it your body is now too. Maybe you have suffered a traumatic experience in your life and that one word can trigger you to get all out of wack. We have all been there, if you haven't kudos to you. There are some who have lost a close lost one, have fought for our country, heartbreak, and so much more. Right now someone may be going through it with COVID-19 this pandemic has affected many mentally. I wanted to talk about PTSD/Mental Health and let it be known that it exists. I have with a friend of mine who did not mind sharing their story. Here is their story.

What is your definition of PTSD?

My definition may differ from others as I've PTSD can vary a great deal with people living with it. Mines can be a flashback of certain traumas, environments and situations that leave feeling claustrophobia and unsafe.

When did you realize you had PTSD?

I was at a festival shortly after moving to Harlem and started to feel uneasy, paranoid and like the people were all staring at me and crowding me. And the feeling didn't go away. I ended up passing out the next day and immediately went and got checked out.

What are some your triggers (if that is that right word use) and how do you manage?

My triggers vary and I'm still learning how to deal with them. My main one is the feelings of safety, feeling unsafe, physically, emotionally, and mentally sends me directly into flight or fight mode. Stepping away from an uneasy situation can be best but can also hurt/hinder. Thankfully I don't require medication, but do see two therapist weekly. I also paint, write and making time for myself.

What is your biggest fear about having PTSD?

That my future relationships will suffer, as people often have unvalid assumptions about people living with this disorder

What do you want to leave with our readers about PTSD?

Communication! If you know someone that deals with PTSD ask questions, gain the knowledge and insight of what it's like for them. Knowledge Is Power.

Early Warning Signs

• Eating or sleeping too much or too little

• Pulling away from people and usual activities

• Having low or no energy

• Feeling numb or like nothing matters

• Having unexplained aches and pains

• Feeling helpless or hopeless

• Smoking, drinking, or using drugs more than usual

Ways to maintain positive mental health include:

• Getting professional help if you need it (crisis health lines)

• Connecting with others

• Staying positive

• Getting physically active

• Helping others

• Getting enough sleep

• Developing coping skills

Signing Off: Protecting your mental health is very important. Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

https://www.quotesandthoughts.com/ptsd-quotes/