Another Person Diagnosed With PTSD

[Marlene]

I received a call tonight from my mother. During the conversation she told me that my brother (who was diagnosed with bi-polar at almost the same time I was diagnosed with PTSD) has now been diagnosed with PTSD. He was a police officer and then a firefighter/paramedic. I've not spoken with him about this yet. We've been in the process of rebuilding our relationship after many, many years of not communicating.

It's odd, prior to my diagnosis, I didn't know anyone with PTSD. Now I have it, my brother has it and my future son-in-law has it. His is from a combat tour of Afghanistan. Not to mention the friends I've made here.

This feels a bit strange. Something new to get used to, I guess.

Lisa

[Grama-Herc]

They say every cloud has a silver lining. Could this be yours?

You are trying to rebuild the relationship with your brother, Right? Well, now you guys have something to make you closer, Maybe?

You know what sharing the PTSD feelings is all about. You are further along with your
discovery about all of this so you can help him, Right?

Just food for thought ! !

[Marlene]

Thanks, Jan. Good food for thought.

I've been thinking a lot about this since Friday evening when I spoke with my mother. I know I need to call my brother...I've still got to process this first. I hope that I can be a help to him.

It's just odd that in my small family PTSD has reared its hear mulitple times now.

Lisa

[Grama-Herc]

PTSD is an EOE and loves to create chaos where ever it can. Call the brother. Don't think about or try to plan the conversation. Just let it flow.

Take this advise with a grain of salt since my muscle relaxers and pain meds are beginning to kick in. Better stop while I'm ahead