I find it important to be understood because it validates my reactions and feelings associated with certian aspects of living a life the best way I can.

When I read others on this forum experiencing similar feelings I don't feel so abnormal or out of sinc. It helps me to accept who I am at the time and what I respond to differently than others because of the PTSD. When I respond differently to events I question myself and start to attack myself for being inept. Normal events can put me into a tailspin.

When others confirm they also respond in this way I relax and am not as hard on myself. It helps me to keep a clear perspective on what PTSD can effect and to change my personal expectations.

When others do not understand or choose not to try to understand it is a clear message to me that there are limits on that relationship. When others respect my boundaries I feel supported and can persue a fuller relationship with them.

Being understood or not is a clear indicator to me about the level of relationship I can have with that person and a measure of my own perception of what my needs are with regards to functioning in daily living challenges.