How Does PTSD Affect Your Life?

[Tessan25]

Do you feel like the PTSD is all you are?
Or are you seeing that it is an illnes like no other illnes
How do you manage your PTSD?
Have you any tips for me?
im really trapped in this and seeking for anything that could help me to step forword and not feeling like you are trapped:dontknow:

[Lucky Laser]

There are times when I feel like it is all that there is. Its like my brain is being intruded upon by all these thoughts and I just want to block it out so bad!

For me, I've found that when I'm not directly working with my symptoms, keeping myself busy works best. I noticed this trend because when I'm working or in school I tend to feel almost normal but as soon as I leave it all comes back. My husband bought me a new video game and that's been helping me lately. Also started rollerblading again now that the weather here turned warmer.

The only general tip I think I can give anyone is to pay attention to what makes you feel better or worse and why. Gain as much insight into yourself as you can, and work with your therapist towards better understanding of these things and healthy ways to deal with them. Be honest with yourself too.

[ladybug08]

I was relieved to find out that I have PTSD, because for a very long time I had no idea what was wrong with me. I thought that I was just crazy. Knowledge is power, so try to learn as must as you can about this disorder. I too find that when my time is occupied I feel normal :smile:

[Marlene]

It's affected everything in my life and every part of my life.

Dealing with your trauma(s) is the first tip I can give you. Learning to live with PTSD in your life (and all of the adjustments that means) is the second tip. Sounds simple (and is) but it's difficult and requires a comittment to yourself and your healing for a good couple of years.

Moving forward happens in small steps and fits and starts. Keep working and it will happen. It just take time. So far nothing in my recovery from PTSD has gone quickly or easily. But it has happened with a dedication to myself of whatever it takes for as long as it takes.

Lisa

[Seeking_Nirvana]

I agree with Ladybug. Knowledge is power and it's best to educate yourself as much as possible about your illness and symptoms. There are thousands of self help books out there to buy.

I've bought about 10 in the past year and I'm going to buy more, in addition to continue to see my T and coming here for healing and learning.

Take care
Tammy

[Grama-Herc]

I have started something to help my severe back pain that might help you.

I now have a pain journal. As soon as I notice my back pain increasing, I stop and try to remember and write down exactly what I have done physically over the past couple of days. It is helping me identify just exactly what actions, twists, turns or movements
I am doing that is causing the pain elevaion.

Try this with your Symptoms and see if it can help you identify yur triggers, your
harder times, etc. Just a suggestion to think about. Hope it helps!