When you have a veteran in your life who comes home from duty and is dealing with issues such as PTSD and depression along with any physical ailments they may also have, you may find yourself wondering what you can do to help and support them. There are numerous treatments and methods that can be used for your loved one's depression and PTSD. While you may know about the conventional treatments for these mental health disorders, you may not know about the more holistic approaches to treatment. Get to know some of these methods and help the veteran in your life overcome their depression and PTSD and regain control over their life.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an alternative medicine treatment that has been in use for thousands of years, starting the China and expanding across the whole globe. It is used to treat virtually any physical and mental health disorder that a person may suffer from, depression and PTSD included.
The idea behind acupuncture is that the body and mind are integrated systems that operate and function properly through a series of flowing energies that travel throughout the body. Problems and issues arise as a result of blockages or other disruptions in that flowing energy throughout the body.
To remedy these issues, an acupuncturist will insert tiny needles into energy points throughout the body that correspond to the ailments the person is suffering from. In the case of PTSD and depression, much of this has to do with relaxation, stress relief, and better brain function and hormonal balance throughout the body. As such, acupuncture points in the ears, hands, face, neck, and other key areas of the body are the focus. These treatments can help to provide almost instantaneous release and calm, helping to clear the mind for other conventional treatments.
Yoga
Unlike acupuncture, which is a treatment that your loved one will go through solo, yoga is a holistic approach to healing that you can do together. Signing up for a yoga class or private lessons with an instructor can help the veteran in your life to regain a mindful connection between their mind and body.
Through a series of flowing and static poses that involve strength and flexibility along with deliberate breathing techniques, the person practicing yoga will be able to focus their mind on the present moment without thinking about the past or getting lost in other thoughts.
This practice of mindfulness and on understanding the ways that the mind and body are connected can help a person to feel calmer, more relaxed, and more comfortable in their own body. All of these factors can help your veteran loved one with their depression and PTSD. And the best part is, you and your loved one can practice yoga together, showing them your direct support.
Now that you know a few of the holistic approaches that can help your loved one with service-related depression and PTSD, you can be sure that you provide them with the care and support they need to regain control over their life.
Share22 January 2016
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