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    A Safe Word For Survivors?

    I appreciate everyone's input. You've all brought up good points. In the end, I decided not to use a word out of concern that it might be triggering. Instead, I ordered a copy of my badge; it has a symbol that is meaningful to both of us, independent of our childhood traumas. So, then, the hope...
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    First Time Out In Public In Years

    I'm so glad to hear you're feeling better. Now, I hope you 'make a memory', so that, if you ever get that anxious again, you can remember that "this, too, shall pass." It really helps to remember that we've 'been there, done that', and come through safely; such memories assure us that we can...
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    Is Anyone Choosing To Deal With Ptsd Without Meds?

    I dealt with my PTSD without drugs for many years successfully. I do keep a small bottle of Ativan on hand for PRN use, but in the last three years I've only taken a few. It's doable if your therapist teaches you grounding techniques, and you practice them daily. Also, meditation of some sort...
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    First Time Out In Public In Years

    Those are all great things! How about your Safe Place? Do you have one? If not, can you make one up quickly? Even a walk-in closet can be a great emergency safe place; put lots of blankets, pillows, stuffies, books...anything that helps, in there. Ben
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    It's Not A Real Problem If You Are Not Hiding It...

    Hi, I'm jumping into this thread just because I am so OLD that maybe I can sort of play the role of your folks, if you know what I mean. I can understand how frightened they must feel when they see evidence of cutting. They must be worried sick about you, and seeing the cutting just proves to...
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    A Safe Word For Survivors?

    I have an idea. She is not only a survivor but a hero; she saved her siblings lives, literally. Maybe I could get a badge that reads 'hero'? Or would that just serve to remind her of the past and trigger her? Ben
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    First Time Out In Public In Years

    Kudos for taking this step! Do you know any self-soothing/grounding things to do? Thinking about math helps me - it pulls me out of my emotional brain and into my adult logical brain. Some people count items (how many orange things can I see?). One member here has an intricate way of breathing...
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    I Keep Hurting Myself Whilst Dissociated

    We are rarely powerless. Even on a locked acute care psych unit, one can have power in a safe and healthy manner. You do this by caring for yourself, and working with the professionals hand-in-hand with the understanding that you are an important part of the treatment team. You are all...
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    A Safe Word For Survivors?

    Just trying to brainstorm, here: Friends? Safe? Peace?
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    A Safe Word For Survivors?

    Hi Everyone, One of my female friends is a survivor of CSA and other intense childhood abuse. She has an ID bracelet, the sort one wears when playing sports and such, with her name, medical condition, etc.. There are 'badges' that can be added to the bracelet. I would like to get her a badge...
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    Early Termination Of Therapy: Therapist Retiring Prematurely. My Anguish.

    Therapeutic touch can be, well, therapeutic. What troubles me - and possibly other members - is the entire dynamics of your relationship with him. Given this, the touch aspect is troubling. Remember, we are just third party observers, so to speak, but it sounds like your therapeutic...
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    I Keep Hurting Myself Whilst Dissociated

    Yes this is difficult time for you, which is why I had recommended a short stay on a DID or trauma unit. If you can't manage that for some reason, you could ask a friend or family member to watch over you, but that's a lot to put on a loved one. Please get some help. You need a time out. You...
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    Early Termination Of Therapy: Therapist Retiring Prematurely. My Anguish.

    How did you know where she lived? In the U.S., searching for your therapist's home and parking outside is a boundary-crossing behavior. Back to the million dollar question, which you are, of course, not required to answer: Did your father molest you as a child? If so, you are seeking a...
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    Sleeping In The Dark? Any Advice?

    Yes, I relate. I have always felt safer sleeping during daylight hours; all of my fears pop out at night. There are some things you can do, even with a roommate: 1. It is very appropriate to have a nightlight. I'd ask her. Roommates need to be able to negotiate; it's just as important for you...
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    A Turn Away From Dissociation: The Association Thread

    Stars (As in the book Number the Stars.)
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