Flashbacks? Real PTSD?

So I have a question.
I have what I think may be a repressed memory (very strong emotional/physical responses to certain triggers, the ways I acted as a kid/feel now, etc) but I also had an arguably traumatic childhood (dad worked 24/7, emotionally unavailable, mom an alcoholic/prescription drug addict who was emotionally abusive/manipulative) and I have all the symptoms of ptsd except for the flashbacks. I’ll have extreme emotional responses to things (ie mild to moderate disassociation when watching movies with abuse, etc), and I have nightmares but not about anything specific, usually having to protect my siblings from an unknown person trying to hurt us. Is it possible to have ptsd from a lifetime of “mild” trauma and/or things that I can only half remember (ie body sensations coupled with terrible emotional feelings and a taste in my mouth associated with things that no 5 year old should know about)? Am I just making it up? Wanting to know just for my own peace of mind.

Flashbacks are only one symptom of multiple categories of symptoms used to diagnose PTSD. I don't have the classical flashbacks and I was diagnosed with it.

Hello RainbowVeins123: I can't really comment with regard to your concerns. However, since this is your first post here on PC, I thought I would just say... to PsychCentral… from the Skeezyks! May the time you spend here be of benefit.

You don't have to have flashbacks to have PTSD. You could find out more by visiting a therapist.

I recommend you see a therapist who's qualified to diagnose you, but as said above, you don't have to have traditional flashbacks to have PTSD. Try to get some help and know that we're here to listen to you any time.

Yes it is possible, but only a specialist who deals with mental issues can diagnose what might be going on with you. Please reach out so you can get help soon