Now that our lives are beginning to open up again, how will we deal with the post-trauma that this viral pandemic created. The terror that we suffered/suffering through with the fears of contracting this illness or even dying because of it.

We usually associate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with war and other traumas in our history. Let’s take a look at the trauma/shock that this virus epidemic has created for humans of all ages. The senior citizens have been targeted as more vulnerable and the younger citizens were swept out of their work and schools. It has been total rearrangement of places, spaces and purposes; disruption of life. I think this identifies as PTSD for many.

However, we can learn how to deal effectively with the current and future living/working conditions and the mental health issues that have been created by this sweeping illness.

There are and will be changes in how we relate to each other and events in the future; conditions that will continue for a long time. Traumatic events often create symptoms of flashbacks, intrusive memories, nightmares, severe anxiety/fears, uncontrollable thoughts about the event and the future, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. These fears follow us like shadows that are undeniable and unavoidable.

There is a way to help calm these traumatic thoughts, feelings and behaviors. We can learn to manage our thoughts and stay in the mode of problem solving.

Learn Cognitive Behavioral Skills to problem solve in the present time. Getting effective treatment after PTSD symptoms begin can be critical to help reduce symptoms and improve daily functioning. Learn how to move your thinking to the present and look at the event from a factual and solution focused view. Mind over matter. That includes logical reasoning and action – not reckless behaviors.

You know the wise way to behave in your home and outside in public. You can listen to the suggestions of the medical and epidemiological reports and question the logic.

Now you have an opportunity to learn the Skills to deal with this traumatic event in a more realistic manner so that you can create a wise functioning daily routine. The Cognitive Behavioral Skills will help you to move from overwhelming fears to being sensibly cautious and continue with your life. Fear is an important emotion because it alerts us that something is amiss and needs attending to; however, if used excessively it keeps us off track.

Note: PTSD symptoms may start in the current time or they may begin months or years after the event. These symptoms may cause significant problems in relationships, social and work. They can also interfere with your ability to do your daily tasks. PTSD symptoms can disrupt your whole life if you allow them to continue. Learn the Skills to think more positive as you organize your life to move forward.

Learn Cognitive Behavioral Skills to:
Communicate Effectively
Problem Solve
Team Play/Work