{"id":1973,"date":"2023-05-07T00:14:42","date_gmt":"2023-05-07T07:14:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/evepacifichealth.com\/?p=1973"},"modified":"2023-06-03T23:07:42","modified_gmt":"2023-06-04T06:07:42","slug":"ptsd-and-the-12-steps-a-healing-path-for-trauma-survivors","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/evepacifichealth.com\/ptsd-and-the-12-steps-a-healing-path-for-trauma-survivors\/","title":{"rendered":"PTSD and the 12 Steps: A Healing Path for Trauma Survivors"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) often leaves individuals feeling alone and overwhelmed. As a person who has grappled with this condition, I can attest to the obstacles encountered on the road to healing. “PTSD and the 12 Steps” is an approach that has been transformative for numerous people, including me, by incorporating the principles of the 12-step program initially developed for addiction recovery. This method has demonstrated remarkable advantages for that processing trauma too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Incorporating the 12 steps into my PTSD recovery family therapy plan offered me a structured and supportive framework to work through the emotional, behavioral therapy, and psychological challenges that arose in the aftermath of my traumatic experiences. By following this tailored, mindful, and growth-oriented treatment approach, I have found a renewed sense of purpose and an improved mental health outlook. For the families of those grappling with PTSD symptoms, the 12-step program is a valuable resource to consider during the healing family therapy process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding PTSD<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
\"ptsd<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Diagnosis<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to diagnosing PTSD, it’s essential to consult with a specialist in mental illness, such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. These professionals can determine if an individual is experiencing PTSD by examining specific symptoms that must be present for at least one month. It’s crucial to work with someone experienced in helping those with mental illnesses for an accurate diagnosis (NIMH)<\/u><\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Symptoms of PTSD<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In my experience, individuals with PTSD usually exhibit a variety of symptoms that can be grouped into three main categories:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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  1. Re-experiencing symptoms: These include flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories of the traumatic event. It’s common for individuals to feel as though they are reliving the trauma repeatedly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. Avoidance symptoms: People with PTSD often avoid situations, places, or people that remind them of the traumatic event. This avoidance can lead to social isolation or other significant lifestyle changes.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. Arousal and reactivity symptoms: Individuals with PTSD may experience heightened anxiety, irritability, difficulty sleeping, or hypervigilance. This heightened state of alert can disrupt daily functioning [((source)](https:\/\/www.ptsd.va.gov\/understand\/awareness\/understand_ptsd.asp<\/u><\/strong><\/a>).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Trauma and PTSD<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    PTSD is a mental health problem that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a life-threatening event, such as combat, natural disasters, car accidents, or sexual assault (source)<\/u><\/strong><\/a>. No one is immune to developing PTSD; it can affect the mental health of people of any age or background.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Coping with trauma and the development of PTSD can vary greatly from person to person. Some people might naturally be more resilient or have strong support systems in place, while others might be more vulnerable due to factors like a history of anxiety or depression. It’s worth noting that if someone suffers from PTSD, it’s not a sign of mental illness or weakness; rather, it’s a reaction to a deeply distressing event that has overwhelmed their ability to cope.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    For individuals suffering from PTSD, finding a suitable treatment approach is crucial for recovery. One such treatment method for PTSD recovery is utilizing a 12-step approach, which can provide a new way of life for those struggling with PTSD and help them learn to cope with their symptoms (source)<\/u><\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Here is a helpful video:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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