The benefits of playing sport in PTSD recovery
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
It is often a result of experiencing or witnessing life-threatening or deeply traumatic events. Unfortunately, PTSD is a common disorder for service personnel due to their experience of military combat.
Those who suffer from PTSD are typically referred for therapy or prescribed medication to aid their treatment. A growing area of treatment for PTSD is the incorporation of physical activity and structured exercise programmes, especially through sport.
Sport provides sufferers with several benefits that go beyond therapy and medication, some of which are explored below.
Physical activity reduces stress and anxiety
One of the core symptoms of PTSD is heightened anxiety. Prolonged stress can exacerbate PTSD symptoms and impede recovery.
Sport provides a natural and effective way to counteract this. Physical activity, especially vigorous exercise, helps reduce stress levels which in turn, helps alleviate feelings of anxiety and improve mood, whilst also lowering stress levels often associated with PTSD sufferers.
Improved sleep patterns
Sleep disturbances are a common symptom of PTSD. Individuals with PTSD often experience insomnia or disrupted sleep due to heightened levels of anxiety. Poor sleep can further contribute to the severity of PTSD symptoms, creating a vicious cycle of stress and fatigue.
Engaging in physical activity can help to regulate sleep patterns. Exercise, especially when done earlier in the day, helps tire the body and promotes deeper, more restful sleep.
Sports can also act as a brief distraction for PTSD sufferers, allowing them to shift their focus to the physical activity at hand and offer some respite from their symptoms.
Social interaction and building community
A significant challenge faced by those with PTSD is social isolation. This can, in turn, lead to the breakdown of friendships and relationships, worsening the situation for the sufferer.
Sports can offer an opportunity for social interaction and the development of supportive relationships. Team sports foster a sense of community and belonging, with individuals working together to achieve a shared goal. Whether in a competitive or friendly setting, the team is united by the sport. Being part of a successful team also helps to boost self-confidence and social skills.
Being a part of a team also allows individuals to operate and contribute in a constructive way without the need to discuss or disclose their trauma. The shared goal of the team is the focus and can make it easier for individuals to feel more comfortable in a social situation without feeling overwhelmed by their PTSD.
Establishing routine and structure
PTSD can often leave individuals feeling disconnected from normal routines and daily structures. This can especially be a problem for former service personnel. This disconnection can worsen feelings of instability, making it difficult to operate in everyday life.
Sports provide a natural structure that can help individuals re-establish a sense of routine. Regular training and matches can offer a framework that encourages discipline and accountability. This structured environment can create a sense of stability and predictability, which is essential for rebuilding a sense of normalcy for sufferers.
Conclusion
Playing sports can be a powerful tool in the recovery journey for individuals suffering from PTSD, especially when combined with other treatments. The physical, mental, and emotional benefits of sports—ranging from stress reduction and improved sleep to increased self-esteem and social support—are critical components in the healing process. By engaging in sports, individuals with PTSD can regain a sense of control, purpose, and community, while also benefiting from the positive effects of physical exercise.
If you or someone you know has been affected by PTSD and you believe we may be able to help, please contact our team and we can discuss the next steps.
