[splitimage]

I hate trying to explain PTSD to people - the flashbacks, the nightmares, the body memories, the dissociation, the intense rage.

I'm in a treatment group for alcohol that meets once a week and I'm really struggling with staying sober because my PTSD is flaring up so badly right now. Whenever I try to talk about it, they all look at me weird.

I know the Dr. running the group gets it, so she does try and help sometimes, but I always feel like such a freak.

--splitimage

[reg12]

Sorry you are having such a hard time right now. Those that are do not having to deal with what you are going through most of the time can not understand. Any chance of finding an abuse support group that you can work with? You are always welcome here to talk about anything, but we won't make you feel like a freak. We do understand. Take care.

[thunderbear]

splitimage
I understand. I feel like a freak too. And I feel ashamed sometimes becuse of the truama I have been through even though it is not my fault. I have been having flashbacks alot here lately. My pdoc sayd it's cause the stress form my staph infection is flaring my flashbacks back up. I hope everything goes better for you

You have done a lot to make a better life for yourself in the last couple years, splitimage. Please do not let others threaten what you been able to accomplish. Letting others define you is so counterproductive.

As reg12 suggests, maybe working with a different group would be better. Good luck.

[phoenix47baby]

I don't think you owe anyone an explanation about PTSD. Let them bask in their ignorance. You know what you have been through. Sorry that this is an issue for you. Sending kind thoughts your way and a virtual HUG.....

[splitimage]

Thanks everybody. I am trying to get into a specific trauma and addictions group run by my local psych hospital. I'm just waiting to hear if I'm eligible. I think that it would be a better fit since it would address both issues at once. In the meantime, I'll keep being weird.

It least it's better than trying to explain what I get out of cutting, which I've also had to do in group.

--splitimage

[WePow]

(((( Splitimage )))) It is not easy to deal with PTSD and all that it brings with it. The thing that is good is how you are not giving up. Good for you.

[KDlady]

Hi split - I am new to PTSD diagnosis and I have a hard time explaining it and getting people to believe it is real (maybe that includes myself - It seems like it should be like the movies - war veterans etc... but I know otherwise ) I can function and am only "mildly" symtomatic most of the time except for rage (which is very disturbing) so I keep thinking (hoping) it will go away - therapist tells me "Good luck with that - it is good to have hope" It is not easy to explain I feel "bad" because of something that happened 30 years ago. and current stress has kicked it into high gear -
sorry - I meant to say - I understand - and I can relate
take care

[BrokenNBeautiful]

I feel the same way; this woman i am getting to know is looking at me "weird", too. She keeps asking me why i'm freaking out all the time.

Ugh...the shame.

Billi

[(JD)]

Forget trying to explain, they won't get it. Even when professionals try to explain to family...who live with the patient and see the symptoms and results on a daily basis... they don't get it.

Tell them, if you think you need to say something, that you have a neurological disorder from an event you experienced. If they ask for more info tell them you're not interested in discussing it right now, adding "I'm sure you understand."

[blameme]

You should not have to explain this to anyone!!! I too struggle daily with my flashbacks and you many people do not understand, but they do not have to understand, because I myself do not understand half the time. Just tell them that you are a very busy person and you are thinking about other things when you disassociate that is what I do. I say, "I'm sorry, what was that, I was thinking about what I need to pick up at the store when I leave work." for example. I know it's not easy, but it is just an example.

And you can always come here. We do understand.

[BrokenNBeautiful]

you are right, Sky.

The only way I can explain at all is if the other person truly opens up their mind about it. Otherwise, it's like talking to a wall!

Billi

Split, God bless you.

It *is* difficult to explain. How often do we hear things like, "Can't you just let it go?" Or "It happened so long ago. Leave your past in the past."

Makes ya wanna just scream with frustration, doesn't it?

I'm with those who say you shouldn't have to explain yourself. When people look at you weird, it's their ignorance showing.

[BrokenNBeautiful]

That is so true!