(PTSD) Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder And Exercise

PTSD: Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD is a condition that some people may experience when they go through a scary, shocking, or dangerous event. It makes them have upsetting memories and nightmares about the event and makes them feel scared or anxious.
PTSD usually occurs in people who went through traumatic events or have witnessed them happening to others, such as accidents or violence. People involved in serious accidents such as car crashes, plane crashes, or industrial accidents can also develop it. Moreover, survivors of natural disasters like earthquakes, hurricanes, floods, etc may experience trauma leading to it. Also, being a victim of physical assault, domestic violence, or other forms of violence can cause PTSD.

Symptoms:

1. Negative thoughts:

People with PTSD may have upsetting memories of traumatic events that keep coming back to their mind .they get flashbacks of the event making them feel like they are reliving it, even when they don’t want to.

2. Nightmares:

They have frightening dreams related to traumatic events, which can lead to disturbed sleep and make them feel scared or anxious.

3. Avoidance:

People having PTSD, tend to evade anything which recalls them of the traumatic event. It can include dodging certain places, activities, people or even talking particularly about this.

4. Negative thinking and mood swings:

PTSD causes a change in thoughts and feelings. Usually, these thoughts are negative, hopeless, and guilty, this highly affects their daily activities.
5. Impulsiveness: people with PTSD constantly look for threats, which makes it hard for them to relax due to which they have angry outbursts or engage in destructive behavior.

These symptoms can be distressing and interfere with daily life, affecting work, relationships, and overall well-being. It's essential to bear in mind that PTSD is a curable condition, and getting a specialist's help can make a visible difference in managing these symptoms and improving the quality of life.

How physical activity or Exercise manages PTSD?

Exercise can be beneficial for people with PTSD in several ways:

1. Stress Reduction:

Physical activity, such as aerobic exercises, can help to reduce anxiety and stress as It releases endorphins, the "feel-good" hormones, which can improve mood and promote relaxation.

2. Distraction:

Engaging in exercise provides a healthy distraction from bad thoughts and memories related to the traumatic event. It can serve as a positive coping mechanism, helping individuals to focus on the present moment and manage their emotions.

3. Improved Sleep:

Regular exercise can lead to better sleep patterns, which are often disturbed in people with PTSD. Improved sleep can positively impact mood and overall well-being.

4. Social Interaction:

Participating in group exercises or sports can offer opportunities for social interaction, helping individuals reconnect with others and reduce feelings of isolation.

5. Brain regulation:

Exercise can have a positive impact on neurotransmitters and brain chemicals, potentially helping to stabilize mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety often associated with PTSD.

Impact of bodybuilding on PTSD:

Bodybuilding and strength training can have many benefits for PTSD such as stress reduction, improved mood, increased self-esteem, and enhanced body awareness.