Hi All

[syrella]

Hi all,

I'm new here, but I thought I'd make a quick post.

I don't know if I have PTSD or not, but I am currently experiencing a lot of the symptoms, including being constantly "on edge" and jumpy, sensory issues, and just feeling overloaded in general. I have a history of ADD, so it might just be related to that, but it feels like the symptoms got worse. I don't have any specific traumatic events apart from just everyday living and everyday stress.

Anyhow, I thought I'd just browse around the forums and see if I could find any answers to what I'm experiencing.

Nice to meet you all!

 

[syrella]

I guess I should probably add that I do have a history of verbal/emotional abuse which may or may not be the cause. My family was always very up and down. I have a mom with bipolar and a dad with ADHD. When they got along, times were great. When they didn't, life came to a standstill. Between alcoholism and financial problems, it was an extremely unpredictable environment. I coped mainly by storing my emotions away and distracting myself.

Nowadays, I find myself having returned home from school and studying for a test. The family dynamics have improved greatly, but I still feel like I'm looking over my shoulder most of the time and I still feel like I'm just waiting for the next blowup to occur. I don't fear for physical hurt, but I do feel like I am on "tiptoes" quite often. I fear that being back home may have drudged up some of my old anxieties.

Mainly, I seem to be fluctuating between being feelings of exhaustion and being hyper-aware of my surroundings. A lot of the things that I used to do are overloading to me, now. I have trouble with video games and movies nowadays because they too have a lot of conflict. I watch children's movies sometimes and I may need to pause and pace around the room a bit at times of high tension. I guess I need to find some new, less stressful hobbies to engage in.

Right now the number of fun things I can do are limited. I've tried getting enough exercise each day, but leaving the house is difficult due to sensory overload. The lights outside feel too bright and I jump at even the smallest noises. Tasks like going to the grocery store are difficult because of the high activity level. I get overwhelmed too easily.

Anyway, once my test is over, I think I'll probably go in to talk to someone about all of this. I don't know if it's PTSD or what, but perhaps someone can help. :) I hope so!

 

[Froggie]

Hi syrella. Unfortunately this is not forum which gives diagnosis, it is a peer support forum. It has to be a mental health professional. I know this may seem very huge, but those who have PTSD have often had other diagnosis before coming to the right one. Once you are well diagnosed, the psych will be able to start a good program : therapy and appropriate meds. Hope this information helps.

 

[syrella]

Oh, don't worry Froggie, I don't expect a diagnosis here. :) Self-diagnosis on the internet is a unreliable thing at best and I know that.

For clarification, I mean that I'll go in to talk to a therapist about it when I am able to. Right now I'm just too busy trying to study and stay afloat. I'm hoping to just hear some stories here and learn what I can. That's all.

 

[KP the nut]

Hi Syrella, welcome to the forum.

Please have a good look around, there some great information. IMHO I think you should try and see a professional if possible for an accurate diagnosis. It is possible to work towards managing symptoms but it is best to be guided by a therapist. Someone who can teach and guide you through your trauma, ensuring you learn techniques to manage PTSD.

Take care
KP

 

[syrella]

Thank you! I'll do just that. :)