PTSD recently started

I was watching a car program on tv about Defensive Driving of which I passed a test for, when something in the program triggered a memory of a near-fatal road accident and this scared me. Recently I started some flashback dreams and woke crying.

Rarely do I ever remember dreams, but though I went unconscious on impact, the memories leading to the accident keeps returning. It is similar to a slow-motion film show and then I wake crying and shaking. My partner helps me with hugging saying that dreams cannot hurt you. But this PTSD dream certainly haunts me.

I am seeing a counsellor to help me with severe anxiety and bereavement, but she doesn't give help for PTSD, so I am in the process of finding a counsellor or therapist, being given time off work.

Thankfully I have been put on a 3-day week, divided over 37.5 hours with the remaining 4 days off. Perhaps my finding a counsellor will enable some healing in this area, but now I am faced with being scared to to sleep. Just the thought of going to bed is causing me to shake, with deep anxiety.

If anyone can offer help, I would so appreciate it.

Thank you so much.

Not sure what help I can offer - but encouragement, I can - keep looking for a PTSD therapist. The right therapist and treatment can work wonders, and quickly. It totally sucks not to be able to get a good night's rest....I hope you find relief soon!

Thank you for taking the time to answer me, @Kathleen83

Most nights I've been trying various ways of relaxing myself. This has helped because I don't wake up crying from these tragic memories.

My PTSD is closely linked with the loss of my parents, in particular my Dad who I was closest to. In relating to this I think I will have to let my grief run its natural course, and importantly don't rush it. It's only been since last spring when Mum and Dad were killed in a road accident. My bereavement may take longer I've been told, so I'm trying to come to terms with this.

Christmas is coming and it won't be easy. I might take my partner and daughter and go away somewhere. That might help.

((((((Access Denied))))))) I am VERY sorry for the loss of your parents. A traumatic tragic loss like this really takes time to heal from. A person really has to slowly learn how to go on living their life without and that's not something anyone can just do. It's very hard when one experiences a loss like this in that it's not anything the person has any way of controlling.

Access Denied - I hope you are doing ok today. I think whomever told you that your bereavement may take longer was right on target. There is no time frame for that; I hope you can give yourself the time you need, no matter how long it takes. Running away from the holidays CAN help. I know, I know, therapists etc don't recommend running away...but sometimes, I do, and sometimes, it helps. Sort of a "run away and live to fight another day" mind set. :-) It sounds like you've found something effective to help you get more and better rest - YAY for that!

Hi AD, I just want to extend my condolences to you. I am so sorry for your loss.