How can meditation help with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

Meditation has been found to be an effective complementary treatment for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Meditation is a mindfulness practice that involves focusing on the present moment and observing thoughts and emotions in a non-judgmental way. This practice can help individuals with PTSD manage their symptoms by increasing their ability to regulate their emotions and reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.

Research has shown that meditation can help individuals with PTSD by decreasing symptoms of hyperarousal, re-experiencing, and avoidance. Meditation has been found to decrease anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances, which are common symptoms associated with PTSD. Additionally, meditation has been found to improve cognitive function, attention, and memory, which can be impaired in individuals with PTSD.

Meditation can be practiced in many different forms, including mindfulness-based stress reduction, yoga, and guided meditation. It is important for individuals with PTSD to find a form of meditation that works best for them and to practice regularly in order to see the benefits.