[bekthar]

So my diagnosis was changed from rapid cycling bipolar I to post-traumatic stress disorder. My new doctor decided this after not only talking with me and reading through my history, but considering events that have happened. I'm a first-year college student, and I was raped in my dorm room the first week of school. I'm okay as I can be: I am in therapy, I'm starting a DBT group, I'm on anti-anxiety medication, I'm pressing judicial charges, and I have a wonderful support system of faculty/professionals, friends, and sorority sisters.

I also got a room change to a single. A lot of my PTSD "issues" stem with sleeping, night, certain lighting, and who I let into my room. It is... manageable.

Now, my parents know about the rape and the room change. They've been difficult/unsupportive, as always. I cried a few times because they seemed to place some blame on me... after the first day I told them I didn't want to talk about it, though I appreciate their concern. I know they are trying their best. There is an upcoming parents' weekend at my school, and they really want to go since my sorority house is having a brunch for parents. However... I know they may ask to see my room. And I don't want to let them in since it is my place. I let very few people in here already: two of my sorority sisters and two of my guy friends are the only ones in here regularly. How do I explain to my parents I don't want them coming in without having to talk to them about what happened?

[phoenix7]

first im really sorry that happened to you - but i am very glad you are getting help

im a bit confused by your last sentence "How do I explain to my parents I don't want them coming in without having to talk to them about what happened? " - ok i think i have it - you think that if you tell them you dont want them to come into your room they will say why? and that will lead to talking about what happened? do i have that right?

Just my opinion - but I think they will find it hard to understand - if you havnt had your sense of security stolen - its hard for people to understand that - the need for a safe place that you are in control of -

can you just say there are more things you want to show them than your room and keep them busy and away from it?

if youre friends can help keeping them chatting ..maybe? just a thought -

if yuo have things of interest - historical things - show them that or nice grounds.... just say they can see your room another time - and in time it may be ok for you to let them in.

have you discussed this wiht your T? they could probably help you

I hopeit works out for you

P7

[kaliope]

if they insist on seeing your room, bring your friends for backup. make sure its a crowd going in there then there is no way for it to be an intimate setting with your parents, no way for them to sit down and get comfy.