Tempted With Negative Coping Skills.

[Fibik]

So I do know having PTSD usually means there are some unhealthy coping skills we use. Anything from self harm, alcohol, or uncontrollable rage. Although for me the rage is just part of PTSD. So my question is do you get tempted or feel like certain negative behaviors would help you feel better? And do you act on them? I have always in times of stress wanted to go throw up. I don't do it but truly come close. I am afraid if I start this I will not be able to stop it. Would that be an eating disorder or just considered self harm? Also too embarrassed to tell Therapist this. Thanks everyone and please share your experiences with dealing with staying away from unhealthy behaviors and even how you talk to therapist about it.

 

[Ugi]

Please don't go down that road.

An eating disorder can definitely be considered to be self harm.

 

[Zugo]

We use negative coping behaviors for a reason so it makes sense we get tempted to use them. You aren't alone in that.

I agree with Ugi, you really don't want to go down that road. I did and if I could take it back I would. I also knew if I started it would get out of control fast and it did. I spiraled deep into an eating disorder that did permanent damage to my body. It may have started as self-harm, but it became much more. And I'm not sure the labels really matter. Whether you call it an ED or self-harm, the point is that it's a coping mechanism that can lead to short term relief but can have long term consequences.

As far as staying away from unhealthy behaviors, part of the trick is figuring out that behavior would do for you (release of emotion, numbing, distraction, etc) and finding something else to do in it's place.

I think if you talk to your therapist about this, you will find that you won't get judged or surprised reaction.

 

[Fibik]

Thank you for your replies. I do know it would be very bad and probably hard to stop! I am sorry you went through all of that and that is what scares me. I can see how it can evolve. Ugh as far as telling T that would be so hard! But honestly if I ever gave in to it I would share with him. Maybe as a first step I can just tell him I am tempted with unhealthy behaviors to feel better. Maybe he can help redirect and learn better coping skills. Obviously this is hard for me to share since I'm even on the anonymous site here! Where I don't feel judged and you all understand.