Welcome Ratner, it is lovely to have you. Whilst you may not be an "official" carer as you say, you do belong here, as you are close to someone with PTSD and have questions. You have come to the right place, we are happy to help.
Quote:
|
Originally Posted by ratnerstar She's in therapy for PTSD now, although she doesn't feel that it's doing her much good -- in fact, she thinks it's often counterproductive, in that it dredges up memories that she'd rather forget. |
Your girlfriend is mistaken in believing therapy is counterproductive or not doing much good. On the contrary, if she is feeling badly after therapy that is a positive sign. It means her therapist is truly pushing her and getting to the heart of the matter. Therapy is not meant to feel good, it is hard work and the PTSD sufferer will feel much pain during the healing process. Many attend therapy for years and never make any progress, and this is largely because the therapist does not push them to deal with painful memories and so on. So, it is very good your girlfriend is dealing with it so early on. Please encourage her in this, if you are able. She will feel very ill for a time, however if she works through it and does not give up, she will feel far better in the end. Additionally, she is fortunate that she remembers her trauma. Some do not remember everything and this interferes with their healing.
What can you do to help? Well, to begin with, learn as much about PTSD as you can, as knowledge is power with this illness. The information sections here upon the forum contain many good articles on PTSD. There is also a Carers information section which offers suggestions on dealing with your PTSD sufferer. Everyone's situation is slightly different however. Much of what you will learn will be based on trial and error, at least I have found that to be so personally. Continue to ask questions here, of other carers and also of the sufferers, as they have very good insight.
Once again welcome, and I look forward to chatting with you more.