Coping with PTSD
By Matthew Tull, PhD, About.com Guide to Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD)
PTSD can cause a number of difficulties in a person's life. However, there are a number of ways a person can cope with PTSD symptoms. Learn more about the different healthy ways of coping with a PTSD diagnosis.
Coping Strategies
A number of healthy coping strategies have been found to be useful in managing the symptoms of PTSD. Try out some of these healthy ways of coping with your PTSD symptoms.
- Overview of Healthy Coping Strategies
- Deep Breathing
- Mindfulness
- Coping with Flashbacks and Dissociation
- Seeking Social Support
- Expressive Writing
- Self-Soothing Coping Strategies
- Progressive Muscle Relaxation
- Self-Monitoring
- Making the Decision to Change a Behavior
- Getting More Active in Your Life
- Are Your PTSD Symptoms Getting Worse?
- Managing Anger
- Coping with Thoughts of Suicide
- Developing A Safety Plan: Be Prepared to Cope with PTSD Symptoms
- Catching and Changing Negative Thoughts
- Identifying Your Emotions
- Scheduling Positive Events
- Using Distraction to Cope with Strong Emotions
- Coping with PTSD During the Holidays
Coping with a Family Member's PTSD
PTSD not only impacts the person with the diagnosis, but also that person's family. Learn how to better cope with a family member's PTSD diagnosis.
PTSD Resources
A number of resources are available for people with PTSD, as well as their loved ones. Find help for your or your loved one's PTSD by checking out some of the resources listed here.
