Men's Mental Health Week Part 2 - Physical Fitness : I have PTSD and Mental Health Issues: So What?

Something the majority of us probably have in common is the fact that we all know the importance of physical health. We have been through what may seem like hell and back during our training, regardless of what branch you were in, and have held what seems like a million minutes in planks. Once you come home, retire, or are just physically away from other military members, sometimes it is easy to lose the motivation to keep your body moving. Exercise releases endorphins, and when you go from moving non-stop for a certain amount of time to becoming stagnant or working a desk job, it truly has an impact on not only your body but your mind too.

Remember, like I said yesterday, everyone is different and everyone’s battles and recoveries look different, this is what worked for me! Plus, physical activity, whether it is walking around the block or doing an intense lift, will never hurt.

I believe that exercise helps me refocus my thinking and helps me to physically feel better. I have injuries that permit me from working out like I used to but I have learned to work around them because being active is a priority in my life. My workouts usually consist of cardio 3x a week (running, walking or elliptical) this really depends on my pain level and how much I can do of each. An important thing to note here is to listen to your body; pushing yourself is great but don’t push yourself to the point of an injury where you’ll have to be on the couch for 6 weeks! On the off days of cardio, I lift weights. I normally lift 3x a week but like most things in life, it varies. Some weeks I get all 6 workouts in and some weeks I can only do 2; and that is okay! Having a schedule is extremely beneficial as it helps keep you on track, but having wiggle room is even more important. Being too rigid will likely deter you from actually wanting to workout, which is half the battle.

Lately, I have been walking the dog after dinner with my 6 year old boy, Lloyd. He enjoys it and the other day he completed a 5K which he was so excited about. Something I always tell people about working out: something is better than nothing. Working out and physical activity is subjective; do what makes you feel good. Maybe use it as a time to blast your favorite music and lift heavy, or use the time to go on a leisurely walk and call an old friend.Physical health plays an important role in my mental health, if you’re struggling maybe it will help you too!

If you or someone you know is struggling, please get help now. Tell a loved one. Tell a friend. Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: [login to see] . If you prefer to talk online, visit the veteran crisis line here: https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help/military-crisis-line