Veterans and Stress Reduction

Veterans may deal with stress, anxiety and grief in a variety of ways, including positive coping activities such as exercise and counseling, or negative behaviors such as substance use and abuse. Here are three healthy ways for veterans to manage stress and build resilience.

Breathing Exercises
According to the Department of Defense and Veteran’s Affairs, one technique for managing stress is focusing on breathing and mindfulness. Author and professional speaker Max Strom has given TED Talks on the subject, highlighting how breathing has helped many people recover from PTSD symptoms. His training teaches different ways to use breath to reduce anxiety and anger. Veterans are encouraged to learn to breathe through situations that invoke these types of feelings using the 4/8/7 rule. Breath in for 4, hold for 8, and breath out for 7. Do this in sequences of 4 or 5 rounds and then breath normally. This technique can bring a sense of peace and calmness.

Yoga and Meditation
The Department of the Navy has used yoga as a method to treat stress and injury. At Camp Pendleton, Navy Medicine has implemented a program called Warrior Pose, a yoga class offered to Marines who have sleep and anxiety issues. Studies have shown that service members who practice yoga have reduced their use of prescription medications to combat these issues, and yoga is gaining in popularity among Marines and other branches of the armed services. Privately owned studios like the International Chair Yoga Association also offer free classes for those looking to begin a yoga practice.

Diet
Diet is another way that stress and anxiety can be managed. Bulletproof Coffee has become a mainstay in some units as a way to “feed the brain” before and during work. The Bulletproof diet, along with ketogenic programs, are being used to help with an overall approach to well-being. With the elimination of sugar and processed foods, some people who suffer from anxiety are finding a general sense of peace and calm by following this diet.

These holistic approaches can help veterans and active duty service members achieve total well-being. For more information about ACI’s support for veteran employees and students, visit Veteran Connection or contact ACI at info@acispecialtybenefits.com.