Quote:
Originally Posted by jo_thorne
The problems that you're describing sound like they would begin to heal much faster if you had access to a psychotherapist who does EMDR or other therapy methods specifically tailored for people with PTSD and history of trauma.
Many therapists will negotiate a fee with you, or you can call United Way at 211 and ask about mental health agencies in your community. If you go to an agency that treats people with no insurance, they are more likely to work with you on a price for your therapy that you can afford.
Other things that might be helpful are meditation, yoga classes, and maybe L-theanine, a supplement from green tea that is very calming and gentle. It is not typically strong enough to prevent panic attacks, but over time it will help to calm your nervous system.
How is your sleep? That's very important. |
Thanks. I am definitely going to look for L-theanine. My sleep is okay. I have panic attacks the instant I wake up, and think maybe it is because cortisol is high at that time. I wonder if L-theanine would help if I took it immediately upon waking up. I am a certified meditation instructor so I know enough about that. I don't think sitting meditation practice is the best thing when depressed and anxious. It can actually make both of these worse. But I might try some other forms of meditation such as walking meditation. I don't believe in EMDR for me as all evidence has only been anecdotal and I really wonder why there has never been any clinical trials. I just wouldn't do it. I am in a recovery group for the PTSD. (I am moving in the new year and someone suggested to me that a new environment might help with PTSD. Away from places that cause triggers.) I have done therapy countless times in my life and truth be told I don't know if it was ever a positive experience. I think I used to force myself into getting better just so I could terminate therapy.
Thanks for your suggestions. I am a tough nut, I think!
PS I have health insurance, I just don't have great health insurance.