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Honoring Our Veterans; How Meditation May Help Alleviate Trauma Symptoms

Trauma Among Us

Approximately 70% of Americans have lived through a traumatic experience, and it is estimated that up to 20% of them will develop post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is a mental health disorder triggered by traumatic experiences. It is associated with changes in brain structure and function and can cause people to relive negative experiences and develop various mood disorders. Due to the wide range of symptoms, this disorder can be misdiagnosed or left untreated and can have a severely negative impact on quality of life, making the need for an effective treatment incredibly important. 
Using Meditation to Reduce PTSD Severity
It is believed that PTSD symptoms can be maintained through avoidance of one’s traumatic memories. Mindfulness takes an approach dissimilar from traditional therapies in that it teaches the acceptance of negative memories, enabling people to focus on the present and let go of their past. King and colleagues found that mindfulness-based interventions reduced the severity of PTSD symptoms after an eight-week program consisting of a daily practice.

Using Biofeedback to Promote Wellness

Biofeedback meditation programs may increase people’s desire to practice mindfulness, thereby possibly further reducing symptoms. One high school in Kosovo assessed the use of biofeedback meditation programs with students suffering from PTSD, finding symptom severity was reduced, even at the nine-month follow-up. On another note, Aideuis wrote about how Unyte’s products can promote the development of secure attachments and emotional regulation with children suffering from trauma.  
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