Visions of PTSD

I am a sufferer of PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). PTSD is an anxiety disorder which can come from seeing or experiencing a traumatic event. Generally, the traumatic event involves a threat of injury or death.

I was not diagnosed with PTSD until late in life. Like most people, I thought I was alone in feelings I was having and vivid dreams even when I was awake. I knew something happened when I was a teenager, but I blocked most of it out. Not wanting to face it. I often thought it was weird that I couldn't remember my childhood. The house I grew up in for 15 years only has vague memories for me. It gets very frustrating when someone in my family says "Do you remember when...", and I can't remember.

I see a psychologist often and she helps tremendously. She helps me find my triggers. Triggers can be anything from seeing something on T.V., hearing something, and even smells.

One way of coping with PTSD is to increase your awareness of what your triggers are. By identifying these triggers what specific types of thoughts, feelings, and situations trigger them. Once you can identify these, you can limit the time you spend in a situation. There are two types of triggers internal and external. Internal triggers are your feelings, these may include anger, feeling lonely, memories, feeling out of control, and sadness. External triggers may include, seeing a car accident, holidays, being in a specific place, and seeing someone that reminds you of the person connected to your trauma. 

It is very important to seek help as soon as possible if you or someone you know may have PTSD. Please keep in mind that PTSD is NOT a sign of weakness. The only way to overcome this disorder is to learn to accept it as a part of your past. This is much easier when you have help from a doctor or therapist. Remember, You are not alone.