A PTSD Therapist's Tips on Navigating PTSD Triggers During the Holidays
The holidays can be a wonderful time to connect with loved ones and reflect on the year that has passed. However, those who have experienced trauma can find that the holidays are an incredibly stressful time of year. Navigating PTSD triggers and managing your symptoms during this season is no small task. The key to successfully navigating your triggers and symptoms of PTSD during the holidays is to be prepared.
You deserve to enjoy this time of year without the added burden of triggers and symptoms. That's why in this blog, I'll share a few tips and tricks to help you do just that. Here are a few tips that can help you effectively manage your triggers and symptoms during the holiday season:
Managing PTSD Triggers & Symptoms During the Holidays in California
Prepare for Potential PTSD Triggers
By identifying possible triggers ahead of time, you can be more prepared for when they occur. Common holiday triggers include crowded spaces, loud noises such as fireworks, and the bustling of holiday shopping. But, it can even include scents, rituals, and traditions. If you know that certain aspects of the holidays could cause an increase in your symptoms of PTSD, then be sure to plan ahead for them.
Have a strategy ready to address these PTSD triggers when they arise. For example, if you know that fireworks are a trigger for you, then consider taking along earplugs or noise-canceling headphones when attending outdoor holiday events. Or, if being in crowded spaces causes you distress, then consider choosing a quieter activity over one that will involve large crowds. Oftentimes, simply knowing what might trigger you can help ease some of the anxiety associated with these triggers.
Find Healthy Coping Strategies
When it comes to coping with PTSD triggers and symptoms, having several healthy strategies at your disposal can make all the difference in the world. Healthy coping strategies can range from breathing techniques and mindfulness to exercise and yoga. The key is to identify what you enjoy doing and how it helps you feel better. To find something that works for you, try testing out a few different options to see which ones work best. You can also ask your PTSD therapist for advice and guidance on finding effective coping strategies that are tailored to your needs.
If possible, keep a list of various healthy coping strategies that you can refer to when things get tough. This way, if your symptoms of PTSD start to flare up and you're not sure what to do, you have a few go-to strategies that have worked for you in the past. For example, you might have a list that includes activities such as going for a walk, journaling, or doing breathing exercises.
Don't Forget to Take Care of Yourself
One of the most important things you can do this holiday season is to take care of yourself. This means eating well, getting enough sleep, and making sure to practice self-care along the way. This can include everything from drinking enough water to taking time to exercise.
Take time each day to do things that make you feel good. For example, you might try doing a little yoga, reading your favorite book, or even taking a relaxing bath.
The holiday season is supposed to be a happy time of year. By applying these tips, you can make sure that your holiday season is not only happy but also safe and free from unnecessary PTSD triggers. However, if you're struggling with your triggers, trauma responses, or symptoms, know that it's not something you have to handle on your own.
Stay Connected to Your Support Network
For the last tip, one of the most empowering things you can do this holiday season is to stay connected with your support network. Whether it's your friends and family or even a therapist, have people in your life that you can rely on. People you can reach out to if you're struggling with PTSD triggers. If you're not sure who to include in your support network, don't hesitate to talk about it with your PTSD therapist in therapy.
You Can Successfully Navigate PTSD Triggers During the Holidays With the Right Strategies
Navigating triggers during the holidays can be difficult. But with the right strategies in place, you can make it through this holiday season feeling safe and supported. Making this time of the year special and enjoyable doesn't have to be out of reach. By focusing on your well-being, finding healthy coping strategies, and staying connected to your support network, you can navigate the holiday season with confidence.
Interested in PTSD Treatment Online in California?
Navigating the holidays with PTSD can be a challenge, but it doesn't have to take away from the merriment and fun of the season. PTSD treatment can help you find healthy and effective coping strategies, allowing you to enjoy your holiday celebrations without unnecessary triggers or symptoms. If you’re ready to take the next step towards healing with therapy follow these steps.
Have your first appointment with a PTSD therapist
Enjoy your holiday season as you effectively navigate your PTSD triggers
Other Online Therapy Services I Offer in California
At my Pleasanton, California-based therapy practice, I specialize in helping people recover from PTSD, CPTSD, and trauma. I also provide emotional trauma therapy, anxiety treatment, and depression treatment. One of the techniques I use is EMDR for depression, PTSD, anxiety, & trauma. As an online therapist, all of my mental health services are available to any California resident through online therapy.