[Zen888]

Hi Everyone

I am still VERY traumatized from my traumatic incident in the summer of '06.

I am emotionally flat as can be and have a difficult time connecting with ppl. I can't relax when I do go outside. I have paranoid ideas that ppl are out to get me or that I am in imdiate (spelling oops!) danger. I have trust issues with ppl....feel very hesitant.

I would like to know how to change my mind set in small increments. For instance...going outside everyday and not feeling disabled with fear and flash backs.

[Fuzzybear]

(((((((((((((((( Pilatus ))))))))))))))))

[Numbers]

{{{ Pilatus }}}

As my T always says, "You have to feel to heal."

You can't rush your recovery. Slow growth is good growth.

It's not just a matter of deciding you are going to do this on Tuesday or that on Thursday. Unfortunately, imo, you have to confront it before you can begin to accept it and move on.

I know a lot about emotional numbness. I am the Queen of Avoidance. I will literally fight with all my might to contain my emotions and memories...still after living with this beast for close to 40 years. I know it is not easy. My writing has been a great outlet.

It's hard work to numb and suppress. And it's overwhelming to think you may have to deal with the emotions. There's that great big fear of being consumed.

There is no easy answer. Everyone heals differently. I hear you though, and understand.

Petunia

I also wanted to give you this info...

"Trauma and Recovery" by Judith Lewis Herman

It's a book about the impact of psychological trauma. It talks about how the ordinary response to unspeakable atrocities is to banish them from consciousness.

But they refuse to be buried. (As we all know)

It is an excellent book for understanding and healing.