Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month was celebrated in June. PTSD is considered a mental health condition which deeply affects your enjoyment of life. Most people associate PTSD with the military, combat, and wars because veterans do have the highest risk (over 23.1 percent). In fact, as of 2011 (according to Bill Douglas, The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Tai Chi and Qigong), 89 percent of VA Hospitals offer therapies such as Tai Chi and meditation in order to help Vets deal with these issues!
Do you know that it is not only combat that causes PTSD? In general, about 8.7 percent of the population is at risk for PTSD. According to Dr. Bessel Van Der Kolk, author of The Body Keeps the Score, trauma happens to us, our family, our friends, and our neighbors. This could range from sexual molestation, beating by a parent, physical violence, to growing up in an alcoholic or abusive/violent homes, any many situations in between.
While most of us have events in our lives that we find traumatic, the trauma is usually short lived. However, other traumatic events can be long lasting and have debilitating effects. At times they may even negatively affect our ability to function normally. Research has shown that trauma produces actual physiological changes (especially in our brain’s alarm system) in our bodies resulting in an increase in stress hormone secretion. As well, trauma affects the filters which help us determine whether information is relevant or not. Unfortunately, trauma leaves an imprint (often permanent) on our minds, our brains, and our bodies!
People may suffer flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain. Intrusive thoughts cause difficulties with concentration. Some suffers turn to drugs and/or alcohol abuse. There are several different methods of dealing with/treating PTSD; for example, support groups, Tai Chi, Qigong, meditation, yoga, physical therapy, and psychological therapy.
Scientists have recently discovered that Tai Chi, Qigong, Yoga, and other mind-body practices actually help people with PTSD. A 2013 meta-analysis in the Journal of Investigative Medicine showed that mind-body practices are becoming more frequently used to treat PTSD symptoms, because they have been shown to reduce anxiety, depression and anger. These practices can also increase self-esteem, energy, relaxation, and can provide a coping mechanism when a situation(s) get stressful. Mind-body practices have become an effective intervention and an important part of ongoing self-care.
Anecdotal evidence and research has shown the benefits of Tai Chi and Qigong in treating PTSD. Tai Chi is moving meditation. It can help by calming the mind and promoting mindfulness (being aware of what is happening inside you), and improving sleep. You learn to focus on slow breathing, along with slow, rhythmic movement. Physically, it improves flexibility and strength. Tai Chi and/or Qigong lowers your blood pressure and heart rate. While not everyone can meditate, with a good instructor, they can do Tai Chi and/or Qigong.
One of the great things about Tai Chi and/or Qigong practice is if space or location are not appropriate or available, you can practice in your mind. No equipment needed!
Unfortunately, many people live with PTSD for years for years, including decades before seeking help. This is why it’s important to bring awareness to the forefront regarding the prevalence of PTSD and the availability of effective treatment options.
In the next blog, we will take a look at Post-Covid Pandemic Stress Disorder!
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