[Zen888]

Hi

I think I have hit rock bottom. I totally isolate myself....don't eat properly.......sleep to much.....horrible flash back memories that leave me feeling paralizyed with fear.....dark negative thoughts......etc

How do I turn my life around?

Hi Pilatus,

Have you talked about coping strategies with your therapist? She/he should be able to help you tremendously in this area.

Here are some suggestions I found to be helpful.

Also, this link has lots of helpful info. http://www.trauma-pages.com/support.php

Specific Coping Strategies for Traumatic Stress and PTSD Symptoms

Mobilize a support system and reach out and connect with others, especially those who may have shared the stressful event

Talk about the traumatic experience with empathic listeners

Cry

Hard exercise like jogging, aerobics, bicycling, walking

Relaxation exercises like yoga, stretching, massage

Humor

Prayer and/or meditation; listening to relaxing guided imagery; progressive deep muscle relaxation

Hot baths

Music and art

Maintain balanced diet and sleep cycle as much as possible
avoid over-using stimulants like caffeine, sugar, or nicotine

Commitment to something personally meaningful and important every day

Hug those you love, pets included

Proactive responses toward personal and community safety and organize or do something socially active

Write about your experience n in detail, just for yourself or to share with others

People are usually surprised that reactions to trauma can last longer than they expected. It may take weeks, months, and in some cases many years to fully regain equilibrium.

Many people will get through this period with the help and support of family and friends. But sometimes friends and family may push people to "get over it" before they're ready. Let them know that such responses are not helpful for you right now, though you appreciate that they are trying to help.

The key word is CONNECTION and asking for help, support, understanding, and opportunities to talk.

Read more HERE

[Zen888]

(((((((((((Petunia))))))))))))

The information and link you have provided are very helpful! Thank-you

[Soidhonia]

Hello I am sorry to hear that you are having a hard time at this time. Have you called your Dr to let them know that you are going through this. The Dr may be able to adjust your medication to help you not have the flashbacks as severely. There are 2 groups that you may want to attend DBSA and NAMI in your area so it goves you some incentive to want to get up and out of the house. Do you have a friend that can come over to help you get out of the house, and maybe go for a walk or to the mall, tha main thing is to get out of the house and start doing more activities. I volunteer Monday through Friday at a Senior center, and it help to keep me thinking about other things (I have PTSD as well);. I hope when you feel better you will consider doing something that you may llike to do for yourself. Volunteermatch, on the internet can help match your interests to an agency in the community that may need your help, that you may like to work for and not have to put in a lot of time. I really feel that you could benefit from a stronger support system and going to NAMI and DBSA and being honest with your therapist can help you get a better support system and the help you need. You may also be able to get extra help from a mental health case manager until you feel strong enpough to do things on your own, to help you from getting overwhelmed. You can talk to your therapist about getting a case manager, and there are usually outpatient treatment programs at local hospitals, that you may be able to attend so you wont have to be alone all of the time. There are diets on the American Diabetic Association website to help you plan meals, that are healthy if weight is an issue. I am sure there are numerous support group in your area and you can check the newspaper in your area on the internet to see what is available. I hope things get better for you soon. Take care Soidhonia

[Zen888]

Thank-you Soidhonia

My doctor has increased my meds and slowly I am getting out more. Life is still a struggle.