Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs when someone has witnessed a traumatic event – and the symptoms can really hold someone back in several areas of their life. Many people with PTSD experience nightmares, flashbacks, paranoia, anxiety, depression and more, with many people who also abuse substances in order to try and lessen the pain associated with these symptoms. Much tension is held throughout the body in those with PTSD because of being startled easily, stressed, angered, or due to having difficulties sleeping. If this is something you’ve been struggling with, addiction recovery is a great place to begin working through the physical, mental and emotional symptoms that have held you back in making the most of your life. Holistic practices treat the mind, body, and spirit in a way that is restorative – and massage therapy could help you in so many ways if your doctor recommends it. It is estimated that 70% of adults in the U.S. have experienced some form of trauma at least one time throughout their entire lives, and with a wide range of symptoms and severities, it’s difficult to tell how a person will go on to experience PTSD without effective treatment at Arbor Behavioral Healthcare. Previous studies have explored the impact on PTSD on individuals who are prone to witness more traumatic incidents – such as firefighters. In other studies, it was shown that firefighters are more likely to benefit from massage therapy to reduce symptoms of their PTSD because it provided them with greater relaxation but also helped them work through some of the stress and tension they experience on a daily basis. Massage therapy reduces cortisol (a stress response) and increases serotonin (which regulates mood, sleep, appetite, etc.) and dopamine (the “feel good” chemical). With this, people in addiction recovery can feel less anxious and less in danger, as massage therapy can provoke feelings of security.
At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor, you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.