Thank you all for the well wishes. She is a just a friend of mine. I am trying to get her to open up and join a support group like this, but she has agoraphobia and it is very stressing to her to meet new people, let alone speak with them. She just had a bad episode and her therapist told her to break off all contact with the people she has been talking to. Here is what she wrote to me and my replies:(hers is in bold)
It's just become so hard for me. I can't deal with stress and uncertainty. I think the pressures of to many people in my life have become over whelming for me.
I see (blank), take your time, I understand, your anxieties, they are taking over right now but you are a lot stronger than you may feel right now.
When people experience anxiety, they may be bombarded by feelings of uncertainty, unpredictability, and uncontrollability. As a result, people may worry in an attempt to establish some sense of certainty and predictability, reducing their anxiety.
Sweetie I understand you are dealing with PTSD You might feel overwhelmed by life and unable to cope with it at this moment it will pass, ,is there anything I can do for you? Talk?
I used to being in contact with maybe 8 people. One of them being my therapist. Now I have many people in my life. Its not a world I'm used to or comfortable in.
Yes I can understand that. Remember you are courageous,
you already faced so much real fear from truly dangerous situations, and survived. It might be difficult to create bonds with other people, because you might think they won’t like you or will leave you when they see what you are “really like”. I understand what you are dealing with, social withdrawal and isolation, it is part of your PTSD and your feeling uncomfortable right now, anxiety and scared. But I am here for you if you need me. But if you want to disconnect with me I understand and I wont be mad, I would be sad though. I really do care about you. (((hugs)))
Just so I understand are you trying to gain control of your life again?
Everything is out of control including me. I went to see my therapist today. She told me to end all contact that U had been talking to. That no one could understand what they would be doing to my mind. She was very upset. I have to go everyday this week to try and bring my mind under control.
I see (blank)...you are feeling scared right now....and I think that is a good idea what she said and she is right...That is why I looked up today about what you are going through, I hope that is OK, I did it b/c I care about you and it said the first thing a person who is friends with someone who has PTSD is to learn all about it, which I did all day, and I am still doing. Have you researched or read about what you are dealing with? I can refer you to some sites if u like. And I will do what ever you feel is best for you right now.... All u have to do is ask...I dont want to lose our friendship, but I do want what is best...
I also wanted to say with time and treatment it will get better. I know it doesn't feel that way now, but it will...
Now every moment is dangerous, unpredictable and threatening.
Yes I understand how you would feel this way..it is normal and will pass...I care about you and will do what ever you need
You are going through a difficult time right now, just know even if I am not there nor speaking to you, I am caring about you
(she then re-posted something I gave her)
Since we are operating on a sort of autopilot we are not always in control. PTSD is an exaggerated state of survival mode. We experience emotions that frighten and overwhelm us. We act out accordingly in defense of those feelings we cannot control.
Of course (blank) I understand.. and I know this...I am glad u read up on this..I hope you continue...and Thank you for sharing..it must be hard for you and scary to do so..I am proud of you for saying so..it does get better in time and with the help of people who care for you...I am one of those people...it does get better...with each step and your recognition of what u r feeling and its causes, it will help you become who u truly are and not what u are feeling...what u r are feeling right now isnt the real you..but something your mind has become, to deal with your traumatic events, I know deep inside clear through the trees, and even if u dont feel it, u r a truly amazing person Your not crazy, ur someone who is worthy and special...So i know its not you talking now but your fears, in time you will overcome this...
I have not talked to anyone at all. The only person I write to right now is you. So that would make you the only person I'm in contact with
BREAK
Did I say the right things? Is there something else I should be doing? I would welcome any advice at all. (She doesnt live near me and is in a bad marriage)
<Please post in forum default style. Artistic posting is only for the Chit Chat area. Amethist>
