I came back to Psych Central after several years away. Been using the chat room but mostly only posting off-topic stuff.

Anyways...

Recently I had a panic attack in an elevator because there were 3 men in it. This was unusual for me as I usually only have panic attacks at night before bed, usually 3-4 times per week. To have one during the day and in public was very unlike me.

My husband has informed me that a sex offender has moved into our building. First, I was pissed off at the leasing office because his registry indicates it was a very serious crime that got him put onto it. At any rate, this upsets me and I haven't been sleeping well. I keep getting up and moving around since I find changing locations and staying awake for a few minutes will usually stop nightmares from recurring the same night.

Not really sure how to deal with this. I don't talk to people about my feelings. I recognize that it is rational I would worry about the sex offender. But it's a situation that I can't change. Moving is unrealistic. It's a large complex - I may never even run into him.


Just for reference purposes, I have had PTSD for 13 years and I am 27 next month.