[Musica91]

I am new to the forum. I suffer from diagnosed Complex PTSD and right now, several "sub" issues which include: dissociative problems, occasional suicidal ideation (comes/goes), depression, social anxiety (comes/goes), self-harm injury (not too active with this right now- also comes/goes), and well - I don't know what else.

I have been hugely triggered with all issues because I just cut ties with a church which was triggering me and have lost many friends - in addition, I have lost the majority of my family due to death - including suicide loss of my older brother to whom I was very close and connected.

I am a train wreck who is functioning in a professional field - and I AM functioning in it, although my work is part time right now.

I am trying to learn coping skills - have learned some and trying to learn more. I find it very difficult.

One issue I am dealing with is the realization that I can learn to cope, and this is my recovery. But I'll never really be "normal" if there is such a thing.

[kaliope]

I have ptsd with dissociation. I am a professional who is very good at my job. I thankfully am no longer a trainwreck. but I have been. it has taken years to get better. many times I haven't been able to function due to my anxiety. I had to drop out of grad school last year it was so bad. if I get bad, my boss just sends me home from work and tells me to take some time off. this hasn't happened for a couple years thank god. I did leave in the middle of the day a couple months ago when I was triggered and had an emergency session with T.

I found the most important thing was having a therapist that specializes in trauma. I wasted three years with the wrong T,. he avoided my trauma like the plague. this just created so much anxiety for me it was hard for me to function. I started with this trauma t this year and with hypnosis and working with my dissociative parts my anxiety has vastly improved. I cant believe how much better things are. I have different coping skills to deal with my anxiety.

things do get better.

[Musica91]

Kali,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with me. I can't tell you how much encouragement that gave me. I mean that.

I am dealing with a therapist who specializes in abuse and trauma. Its rough but this person is extremely patient and good.

This therapist uses hypnosis and other methods which work for me, but we have had a terrible time establishing trust - and its not because of the therapist - he's really good and really respectful - its me. I can't hold onto trust for anything.

I think we are making slow progress though - and this person refuses to give up on me, which does help.

I think it takes a long time too. But I'm so glad to hear its gotten better for you. Does give me hope.