Can't recognize my appearance

[amanda3of4]

Hello folks.

I have a quick question. I've noticed increasingly lately that sometimes when I look into a mirror I become suddenly startled and frightened to see that someone is in the room with me. That is to say, sometimes I don't associate myself with my reflection. It'll only take me 5 seconds to realize that the reflection is in fact myself. This isn't a huge deal to me as it hasn't caused any serious harm other than to frighten me repeatedly. But I am a little curious to know what's going on with me. I also have really bad facial recognition in general.

Thanks for your help.

 

[anonymous]

It sounds like derealization, which is a form of dissociation. Are you in therapy?

It's a very weird and scary feeling kind of hard to describe, I had that during my trauma.

 

[Jules]

Hello folks.

I have a quick question. I've noticed increasingly lately that sometimes when I loo...

Hello there, its Jules m new to the forum.
I wanted to reply to your post thing similar.
I hit my head badly a few years ago and have not recognised the face in the mirror since - more, I am frightened looking at it.
The same sensation happens when I sometimes glance at my arm,or it may be my foot - they are not mine.
I am not sure what you call it, but I don't think this part is ever going to be 'healed' making what is supposed to be me - me again.

Hope that makes sense - you are not alone in this.
Jules

 

[shimmerz]

Yes. This has been going on for me about 2.5 years now. It seems to be getting increasingly worse these days. I don't have any advice, but just wanted to let you know that I could have written the OP's posting. It shocked me to hear that you have a problem with facial recognition. I didn't realize that perhaps that was part of the PTSD

 

[Jules]

Hi Shimmerz,
Yes. I think its one of the worst things.
I was going to try 'mindfulness, but the first thing they get you to do is to concentrate on your breath - and in a group of other people.
I tried, but concentrating and thinking about it really spooked me, couldnt do it. It felt like i was invading someone elses life, 'feeling' their breath.
I have made progress since then, so might try it again - heard good reports about it.
Regards

Jules

Hi, Jules here
That previous message, about 'mindfulness, was for Shimerz and anonymous - sorry, i am new to this forum
Jules

Sorry, just noticed - its for Amanda too - easier just to say to everyone. I am a bit slow arent i!
Jules