Undiagnosed A glimpse of me ...

[coral]

I am undiagnosed, but I suffer from anxiety/depression since 1978. Recently - (1/13/17) - I was the victim of a home invasion by three knife-wielding men who took a lot more than my license, passport, money, computer, camera, etc, and car. I was fortunate to get my car back; it had been spray painted black and was a mess. Because I live in Mexico and am a US citizen, I would need to seek out professional help in the US. I'm slipping away - scared of my shadow, do not want to be alone nor do I want to be with people. The typical response from even well-meaning and long time friends is "get over it and move along." It's not quite that easy. And, I am angry. Very angry. I'm looking primarily for support/suggestions as to how to get myself back up from this horrible place I'm in. Thank you for reading and I look forward to hearing from anyone who's willing.

 

[Joan]

Welcome to the forum. I am so sorry for what has happened to you and what you are experiencing. My recommendation is to seek out professional help as soon as possible. The earlier you get help the more chance you can potentially not develop PTSD. Have you tried to get any help from a therapist that uses skype? Just thinking that may be quicker than you coming back to the states...not sure how close you are to the border or how easy to go back and forth. It is often quite painful what "friends" say in the aftermath of a traumatic event. Take sweet care of yourself.

 

[ladee]

Then get started on finding a therapist.... I would suggest a Trauma Therapist as you may not have PTSD, but PTS, and that takes a less time to untangle.... you sound very self aware and know you need help... get on that ASAP.
That was a very traumatic event that you survived.... and after the fear, I would be angry to.... I have found that anger is a good catalyst for change... use it to heal.... Hope you stay in touch and let us know how you are doing...

 

[coral]

Welcome to the forum. I am so sorry for what has happened to you and what you are experiencing. My recom...

Thank you for responding so promptly. I am near the border so it's not impossible, but somewhat unmanageable until I get my "paper" life back. So far, the border patrol has been very understanding and I'm so glad I made copies of my passport and my driver license. It's just a mess of hoops to jump through and both DMV and passport offices are booked well in advance. I'm trying my best, but I'm on edge most of the time. I moved and am very safe now, so I am aware. It's just I don't want to be around people yet I don't want to be alone. Anyway - thank you again. I will be researching options for Skype therapists.

Then get started on finding a therapist.... I would suggest a Trauma Therapist as you may not have PTSD,...

Thank you. It's a relief to be able to chat with people who understand. I will be doing some online research first thing tomorrow morning. BTW, the offenders were caught after a spree using my car. One other invasion resulted in a death. I am grateful that they are in jail and will likely stay there for the rest of their lives. Thanks again.