11 Suggestions for Managing PTS During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Guide for Military Veterans
Post-traumatic stress symptoms can become more severe during this time of isolation. This can take a toll on your mental well-being.
There are many steps you can take to mediate your symptoms. Here are a few:
The list should be people you can talk to daily. Speak to someone every day.
Being scattered and having things cluttered and unorganized can affect your mental health and add to your stress. Get things organized and keep them that way.
Exercising in the morning can improve your mood and follows a schedule that mirrors the military.
Staying hydrated makes you feel better and more alert.
Work on a schedule and everyday if possible. If you do not have work, find some tasks that need to be finished.
Do not become complacent on taking your medications. There are meds that if suddenly stopped, will cause a downward spiral of mental health. Multivitamins will ensure you are getting the complete vitamins you need to help you stay physically and mentally healthy.
Eating balanced meals will provide you with the correct nutrients your body needs to stay physically and mentally healthy.
Give purpose and positive energy to your hyper alertness. If possible, volunteer on an emergency or crisis task force. Your military service will fit well, and it will concentrate your energy.
Use meditation or breathing techniques to relax, especially at night before trying to fall asleep. Gardening is considered by many to be a form of mediation.
For more information
Contact Crystal Kyle, Ph.D., NC AgrAbility director and NC Agromedicine Institute coordinator, at cakyle@ncat.edu.
