Do I Have Ptsd, Please Read My Story

[Lillyflower]

Hello,
I came on here after having spoken to someone regarding domestic violence.
I suffered physical and emotional abuse from my ex for 4 years. 1 year into our relationship I developed random panic attacks. This caused me "generalised anxiety disorder" Apparently this diagnosis could be wrong and more PTSD?
Can anyone help me? I dont know whether its worth going to the GP for a diagnosis and then proper support?

My symptoms: nightmares - not about the event but about him, general feling that 'something bad is going to happen', intrusive thoughts of 'harm' "What if I hurt someone?" (Id never want to hurt anybody, its very distressing) Panic attacks about trivial worries, sometimes about 'it' in general, A numbness about the violence he inflicted on me, sensitive to loud noises, became agoraphobic, worrying about anything and everything, a 'sick' feeling about the relationship, feeling very lost. If he moves back to our town, I woudl have to move due to a serious fear I will have a nervous breakdown.

Thankyou, and I am sorry if I have wasted your time if I dont have it xx

 

[Justmehere]

Hi and welcome to the forums!

No one here is able to diagnose and determine for sure if you have PTSD or not. Trauma can play a role in the development of a number of mental health conditions and symptoms. It does seem like a likely possibility that you could be dealing with PTSD. You may not have all the categories of sunrooms to qualify for the full diagnosis of PTSD, and maybe that is why someone gave you the generalized anxiety disorder diagnosis. Or maybe they didn't understand the trauma history. Misdiagnosis is pretty common.

Diagnosis of PTSD or not, you have been through a horrible experience and are really struggling now. You have a legitimate need for support for what you have been through and are struggling with with now, and I hope you reach out to your GP and consider counseling.

 

[Casey_03]

It sounds like it could be PTSD, though only a doctor can judge (and even then, sadly, sometimes they are wrong). I'm not sure a PTSD diagnosis would make things any easier though -- you need to be treated either way for what you are going through, and soon, because it will likely only get worse if not treated. I would suggest reaching out to support groups for victims of domestic violence and talking it out as much as possible, but also seeking help from a therapist. The support group would help you feel less alone and realize your symptoms are normal, and also to connect with others like you, while the therapist could help with more technical matters, like a diagnosis and how to deal with things day-to-day. And we are always here to listen too!

 

[Lillyflower]

Thank you for getting back to me.
On relfection it is effecting my life quite severly and possibly I have not noticed as it has been gradual.
I have had counselling but they never focused on the actual traumas, of which I have no feeling toward at all.
I am going to the GP on wednesday to discuss this and will also look into private therapy.

Thanks again xx

 

[EveHarrington]

If you need a referral, then go to your GP. If you can seek out a psychiatrist directly, go directly to a psychiatrist. The chances of getting an accurate diagnosis for PTSD from a GP are slim at best. (It can be difficult for a psychiatrist to determine PTSD, too.)

 

[Ocean5]

As @EveHarrington mentioned go to a psychiatrist. If you can find one that specializes in PTSD or trauma even better.

Start keeping a list of what you are feeling or experiencing. That way you won't forget when you go. Just be honest - even if difficult to talk about what you are experiencing lately. Can always just hand them a note of symptoms if it's too hard. That way they have an overview.

I'm sorry you went through that....