Life Transitions and PTSD - Topic Overview
You go through many transitions, or changes, in your life. They can be good, bad, or just something different. Transitions include getting married or divorced, moving, a new baby, a new job, or changes in your health.
All transitions can be stressful. Even a good transition, such as getting a better job, is a change and can cause stress.
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During a transition, you may not feel sure of yourself. You may feel that you have lost something or feel nervous about the change. If you feel this way during a transition, you may notice more intense symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
- You may not sleep well and may have nightmares.
- You may feel more anxious or nervous.
- You may feel distant from friends.
- You may feel angry, sad, or depressed.
The worries that a transition brings usually go away as you adjust to the change. To help yourself during this time, you can:
- Get enough sleep.
- Eat well.
- Get exercise.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs.
- Talk to family and friends about it.
If your PTSD symptoms are still bad months after the transition, see your doctor.
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