I know what you mean about slapping your face, I have to hit my chest so my heart regulates again. I mimic everything that entails the flashback, so if I was drowned and brought back to life, my heart will try to stop. Watched Schindler's List for eight seconds and went into a full blown flashback, had to call ems to get my heart shocked back. My friend, a vet, was in the front seat and saw the moniter jumping like crazy, flat lining, going very slow etc etc etc.
Finally they put the shock tapes on and bam.
I took them off when it stopped and the electric started burning my skin.
When mine first started it was like a flood gate opened. I couldn't stop them. There was no time to process because, boom, another one would emerge. The body can only take so much, medication helped me, xanax is my security blanket, as long as I have ten in a bottle, I can travel eons. Without them I am a quivering idiot.
I don't take them everyday, but have a script for 4 1. mg. a day prn.
I usually only take about three a week, but I need to know I have my stash. lol
Like a choco holic needs to have a candy bar lying around.
Try writing in a journal, and not reread it til after your dust settles.
I find when I write something down, it does not repeat itself in my mind like a song lyric that drives you crazy.
Group therapy may help, seeing that others have similar issues. Just knowing you aren't the only one in the boat makes the journey alittle more comforting,,,,,,, ;)