Effects of Physical Activity on PTSD
Post Traumatic Stress disorder is a debilitating disease that affects relationships, and the physical and mental state. While no cure has been found, exercise has been proven to lessen the effects of this condition. Physical activity has also been linked to prevention of diseases and illnesses that are typically associated with PTSD. Most commonly seen with military veterans, after being diagnosed with PTSD aggression levels rise. Physical activity leads to a feeling of confidence and allows an outlet to relieve pent-up aggression, while combating the urge to postpone activities. Physical activity is the most effective treatment for PTSD, and is efficient in avoiding prolonged and worsening effects.Effects of Physical Activity on PTSD
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is a crippling illness diagnosed after the occurrence of a traumatic experience followed by the onset of recurrent anxiety, nightmares, and aggression. Many also experience flashbacks and uncontrollable thoughts after witnessing the event. For most, this disease prevents them from participating in various activities that they enjoy, it may also keep them out of work, or permanently damage relationships. While there are currently no cures that successfully get rid of PTSD, studies have shown that “low-to-moderate intensity exercise can elevate mood, reduce anxiety (Cohen and Shamus, 2009) and act as an overall stress-buffer (Tsatsoulis and Fountoulakis) (Kim, et al. par. 3). For an individual with the disease, “Getting effective treatment after PTSD symptoms develop can be critical to reduce symptoms and improve function (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) par. 3).
Without treatment, symptoms may worsen leading to more debilitating impacts. An individual with PTSD will usually begin showing signs of intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking or mood, as well as changes in physical and emotional reactions. This leads to the withdrawal of participation in leisure time and physical activities. According to a study by the Hospital das Clinicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de Sao Paulo, a person diagnosed with PTSD will remove themselves from engaging in activities that were formerly enjoyed.
As shown by the graph, individuals diagnosed with PTSD have significantly reduced the participation in activities, especially exercise. While some of this can be attributed to the individuals with no one to participate in physical activity with them, majority of the avoidance of participating in physical activity stems from the anxiety and depression that is associated with PTSD. Depression leaves a feeling of sadness, usually leaving the victim unmotivated. While physical activity aids in a feeling of boosted self-esteem, if the person has severe depression following the diagnosis of PTSD; many do not have the motivation or the feeling that they should. Instead, physical activity is written off, this can contribute to the development of depression. When depression evolves into chronic depression. Drug use and alcoholism can result, which leads to the worsening of health issues and the introduction to addiction.
