Treating PTSD: Constructing Solid Healing Goals

Think back to the times you’ve wanted something really, really badly. That’s right, think back to a time when you wanted something so much you could see it, feel it, hear it, taste it, smell it.

Now, think about your approach to healing PTSD. Is it as vibrant and energized as that other example? Can you hear, see, taste, smell and feel what it would be like to be PTSD symptom free?

Hmph. I didn’t think so.

The question is: Why not?

Of all the goals you’ve ever had in your life, isn’t PTSD healing more important than all the others put together? Don’t the others seem pretty miniscule next to the big X on the spot of recovery?

It’s tough, in the PTSD fog, to see the future, but that doesn’t mean you can stop trying. Developing that skill — like any skill — takes practice, determination and repetition.

So I ask you again, why isn’t that desired goal of PTSD healing as well formed, solid, 3D, bright, clear, focused and alive  as those other things? Those cars, those clothes, those meals, those books, those vacations… Why were you so deliberate in setting and sensing everything about those goals and with PTSD…. eh, not so much?

Unacceptable to answer, “I’m depressed,” “I can’t do it,” “I can’t concentrate,” “I can’t get out of the past.” Of course you can’t; that’s the PTSD challenge. To do all you have to do in order to heal while being overwhelmed by the PTSD condition.

You’re not getting off so easy with any of those excuses. You’re a survivor. You’re already tough. You already have reserves and resources of internal strength that you’ve already learned to tap. And I know you’re tired from having used them, but women giving birth get tired and still, they are required to give that one final PUSHHHHHH! If they can do it, so can you.

It isn’t enough to say, “I want to get well.” You must be as passionate, deliberate and detailed about PTSD healing as you are about any other desire.Your goals must be well constructed, thought out and solid. Think you can handle that? I think you can. I believe in you.

BRIDGE THE GAP Exercise

Constructing solid goals is really not that difficult if you ask yourself the right questions and give detailed answers.

Today, answer the following questions. Think them through. Consider the possibilities.

State the answers in positive and succinct sentences that are proactive, clear and precise. Don’t ramble on and on. Find the kernel of your thought and save it. 

Write out your responses so we can refer to them later.

Now, take a deep breath in, hold it, and let it out three times. At this moment you are entering the zone of your imagination. Use it to make your desires come to the surface of the fog.

If you’re feeling brave, post your answers in the comments.

• What do you want?
• When do you want it?
• Where do you want it?
• With whom do you want it?

Possibilities await you. What will you choose?

(Photo: ChrisMoncusPhoto.com)

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Tags: desire, free, goal, healing, ptsd, recovery, Setting Healing Goals, skill, survivor, symptoms