[Skywalking]

Hi folks.

I was hoping you might have some advice. I'm not diagnosed with PTSD, but I went through a traumatic event some years back. I don't suffer with day to day issues from it, but a big anniversary of it is coming up.

Unfortunately, it was a major event and the anniversary is going to be in the news frequently. Especially as it spawns a LOT of political debate. I expect it's going to be pretty bad and I doubt I can avoid all of it, though I'm trying to.

I've encountered a few reminders already and I'm really surprised at my reaction. I was extremely angry, and I was sad, remembering what happened and how I felt and the impact it had on my life. I had a strong urge to get away from the reminder but I felt trapped for some reason, almost a little sick. Ever since, even things that don't usually bother me - like a song I relate to it, items that remind me of it - have suddenly become things I don't want to hear or see. It's also brought back the big sense of guilt I felt at the time, for being upset despite not suffering as severely as many others did.

I wasn't expecting to have such a strong reaction, and now I'm actually afraid of what's still to come because it will be much, much more intense. I have bipolar and I'm extremely stable, but I'm a little concerned this might knock me off balance.

Are there any tactics you use when dealing with difficult anniversaries?

[kaliope]

well even though you have never been diagnosed with ptsd, these are certainly symptoms of ptsd. if you are not in therapy, i highly suggest it with a therapist who specializes in trauma who can do emdr to help you process the incident. even just talking about it over and over and over again with someone can help process it. and your suspicion that it could throw your bipolar off balance is valid. my ptsd, when triggered intensely has done that a number of times.

[Skywalking]

Thanks, kaliope! I appreciate hearing from you. I'm afraid therapy is a no-go. But it's good to hear from someone that deals with the same stuff I do, and knows I'm not just making it up. That in itself helps.