Sufferer New Here

[UnKnown-Self]

I just joined the forum today. I was first diagnosed with PTSD 35 years ago but I am just getting help for it. Since that first diagnosis I have been in hospitals for my depression, in therapy for anxiety, depression, stress, and sexual dysfunction but not until now 35 years after that first diagnosis am I in therapy and focusing on my PTSD.

 

[Intrepid]

A lot has changed in 35 years. I've been working on PTSD related issues for 28 years. Therapy has improved a lot over that time.

Welcome to the forum.

 

[UnKnown-Self]

Thank you Intrepid.

 

[mrsps]

Welcome to the forum, I am sure you will be able to find support and help here from all of us to help you along the way in your recovery :)

 

[Namenotdiagnosis]

Hi and welcome X lots have changed in Mental health over the years as it has progressed slightly and there isn't such a stigma attached to it , well I suppose that's my personal opinion X however I hope u find lots of support in the forum , I'm confident you will X

 

[seedling]

That's great you are able to focus on PTSD treatment now. There are so many things to try, and you already have a lot of experience with therapy. It seems like you might have some coping skills etc. that someone new to therapy would still have to learn.
Have you found a therapist just for PTSD that you like?

 

[intothelight]

@Kara.m Welcome to the forum!

A trauma therapist can really help with managing PTSD. I hope you find one that works well with you.

 

[UnKnown-Self]

That's great you are able to focus on PTSD treatment now. There are so many things to try, and you alrea...

My current round with therapy started in August of this year after my husband of 4 years passed away. That grief and the fact that for me, my current workplace is a toxic environment really dropped me to my knees. My PTSD was triggered during a group session on family dynamics that involved creating a family tree of mental health, substance abuse and violence.
I am working on coping skills, the most difficult and the most important is mindfulness and staying grounded. My current therapist is very good. I trust her even though her specialty is not PTSD. She does understand what I am going through and always makes time for me anytime I need to talk. Once I finish the current program and move to weekly sessions, my new therapist's specialty will be with PTSD.
I am fortunate that my current therapist, my psychiatrist and the therapist I will be going to are all in the same building, part of the same center. With the current way health coverage works, not everyone is so lucky. I appreciate the welcome.

 

[Ocean5]

Welcome to forum - sounds like you will be getting comprehensive care? Or at least therapist and psychiatrist consulting each other regularly?

Yea I learned hard way - I thought I dealt with my issue, but knew I still had serious ptsd issues. Never knew how bad it could get. Then when life events fall on you one after another - it can drop you to your knees. Something I never expected since I've overcome so much.

When I was told to create a family history before seeing first psychiatrist/therapist. Putting it all on down in writing did send me into serious downward spiral...... I paced apartment for a week once I wrote it all down. I couldn't even belief the my own family history.