What is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe psychological condition that can develop in people after experiencing trauma. Trauma refers to an extremely frightening or shocking experience, such as war, violence, disaster, or even bullying at school. When a person endures such severe psychological trauma, their mind enters a state of chaos and disorder. One can envision this as a library where all the bookshelves have collapsed, and books are scattered across the floor in complete disarray.
Symptoms of PTSD
In ordinary circumstances, when we need to recall or think about something, our brain “finds” the required information, as if taking a book from a shelf. But for people with PTSD, all the “books” of their memories and thoughts are jumbled, and the brain cannot quickly locate what is needed. Imagine how difficult it would be for you to find a specific book if they were all piled on the floor in heaps! The mind of a person with PTSD struggles similarly. Consequently, they behave erratically and unpredictably – freezing, shouting, or crying without apparent reason. Their brain has simply stumbled upon a painful trauma memory and could not cope with it.
Treating PTSD
This is not their fault – such a disorder results from the psychological trauma they have endured. Just as one cannot blame the library for the disarray after the shelves collapsed, people with PTSD require professional help from psychologists and doctors to organize their thoughts and memories, to “put the books back on the shelves.” Alongside classical PTSD treatment methods involving therapists and psychologists structuring information in the brain, meditation is a fundamental approach to combating PTSD. This powerful practice of mindfulness helps calm the mind, reduce stress and anxiety levels, and bring order to the chaos of memories and thoughts.
Refugee Rehabilitation Program
At our center, we actively employ Transcendental Meditation (TM) in a comprehensive rehabilitation program for refugees with PTSD. In addition to individual TM instruction, we conduct group therapy, creating a safe atmosphere for refugees to share their experiences and support one another. However, beyond treating trauma, our program aims to provide refugees with an opportunity to start a new life. We assist refugees in resolving issues related to temporary housing, education, and employment. We also teach various crafts and trades. We procure equipment and materials for organizing housing and farms, enabling refugees to achieve financial independence and stability. Healing from PTSD is a lengthy process requiring patience, professional assistance, and support. Through meditation, group therapy, facilitating a new life, and providing practical skills, we help refugees organize their minds, find inner peace, and regain their footing after enduring trauma.
Our Approach and Achievements
Through this multifaceted support, over 15,000 refugees have already reported significant improvement in PTSD symptoms, increased quality of life, and renewed hope for the future. We continue to refine our program to help even more people.
