<font color="blue">Thinking... each person will read those lists from the perspective that their mental states allows... not necessarily from someone without either dx, who is being objective. If you argue with something, perhaps it's best for you to take that exact example and realize the reason you are aguing is on the list too!

The subject of labeling rears it's head often. There are needs for labels, yet also needs to be humans not the labels we find represent something with whice we struggle.

It is unfortunate that stating FACTS brings about such strong emotions. I posted because I was emotionally upset, that I am NOT being mentally ill. I AM NOT. Maybe this thread didn't do much for you, but it has become my declaration for realization of where I'm at, and why I'm here (there.) IF PTSD is treated as a mental illness, if the patient takes that mindset, few things make sense. (Possibly because they are trying to use the wrong "list?")

These 2 lists helped me realize that there is a difference. While it's in black &amp; white, not all the things on the list are black &amp; white. That's one of the problems ptsd creates. PTSD also creates a problem with speaking in generalities. (Now, doesn't that sound a bit contradictory in itself to you? It does to me, yet I understand it, because I'm living it.)

It does not account for protracted PTSD and how the depression that goes "with" ptsd is different than the depression that may develop alongside and because of the time it takes to learn to live with ptsd. It also doesn't account for the "stockholm syndrome' which I, personally, have also developed.

But, for me, the posting of these lists created a clear building block. I may forget what all is here, but hopefully I will remember it's here, and refer to it.

It showed me how I view even other's illness differently... from my own, and because of my ptsd.

Yes, there are legitimate studies about how there can be a propensity to develop ptsd if your previous environment exposed you to certain aspects of life... but it doesn't mean you will "get ptsd." [a previous example I used was about the high percentage of those with Jewish backgrounds are Senators. ..But being Jewish doesn't mean you will also be a senator! ]

Another fact brought out was the melding of the mind and body. PTSD is a very complicated example of this phenomena. And maybe even caused the current study and understanding of just how connected! IMO.

As you may or may not have read, my psychotherapy is hitting CBT in stronger ways than it has in past. I am not the same, and will not be the same, again.
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"If you can't run with the big dogs, stay on the porch."