[AlittleUnsteady]

I have ptsd and have an issue when men I don't know are in my space. When I get to know guys and I determine they're safe, then I don't mind as much, as long as they don't touch me without my permission. Today, I found myself in an all too common situation. I was waiting in line to check in for an appointment. A man came in and stood behind me and I felt like he was way too close for my comfort. I kept moving forward, but he just stepped forward more. I noticed that I could not move up any further, so I stepped sideways. I think the lady in front of me was irritated with me also. I didn't know what else to do, and even then, I felt like he kept getting closer. I felt really panicked. I wanted to run away. Does anyone else struggle with things like this? I try to remind myself that I'm safe, but it's like my body and mind are on completely different levels. They feel disconnected. What can I do in the future when my space gets violated by strangers? Is it ok to tell them to back up?

[Open Eyes]

It's understandable that would challenge you, I have things that can trigger me as well. I guess if you encounter something like that again and someone is too close you could ask the person to step back as you are clostrophobic or you can even suggest someone step back because you don't want that person to catch your flew virus. I find that people will act better if it's about "their" comfort or safety instead of yours.

[ADeepSandbox]

I hate that too, I really don't like people but especially men in my space. It's like your brain knows you're perfectly safe but you're still freaking out. it's hard and I'm sorry that you deal with it.

A guy I know in passing came up and put his arm around me while I was at work one day and I get edgy any time I have to be in that office.

Yeah I think it's totally okay to ask people to give you some space. You could maybe claim you're claustrophobic if you don't want to have to say the real reason.

[PumpkinPieHead]

Not only was he in your space, but he was behind you! I have trouble with people, especially men, being behind me.
You're stronger than me. I would have left.

[Hidden1111]

I have a larger personal space than non-PTSD people. However I have a more "offense" than defensive approach. I have been known to turn around and stand and look people dead in the eye with sheer annoyance, or just the sheer insanity that runs around in my head. They generally are the ones who want space after that. I've also leaned back into people, stumbled back and stepped on toes, been so sorry. Thrown my purse over my shoulder while they jump back. I get the occasional HEY, to which I answer, I'm sorry, I didn't realize you were so close. I can't recommend an offensive approach because there is always the possibility of a nut who wants an argument. But most people want nothing to do with a person behaving badly. They don't mean to be behaving badly. I am the one with a larger personal space.
It also works very well, a tear in my eye as I near panic, to turn around and say, "Excuse me, I have panic attacks and if I could have a little more space it would help. I'm sorry to bother you. " Every time people have had genuine compassion for me, offered help, all sorts of things. In stores that have the electric cart I take it because that creates space and non one is in my face.

I hope you can find the right answer to establish your needed and much earned personal space.
Sincerely, Hidden1111