How Do You Describe Ptsd To Others

[munkinmama]

Today I had a second meeting with my church in an attempt to bring my PTSD Service Dog with me. I was asked about my past and what happens when i am not ok. When I explained a few of my triggers and how i attempt to cope. I was told I have some coping strategies and for now not to bring my Service Dog. One suggestion was to have someone I trust sit next to me and when i have panic attack then tap them on the leg . Issue with that suggestion is I cant. In the end I ended up have 2 panic attacks when i got home at the thought of leaving my Service Dog at home. Suggestions

 

[shimmerz]

Really????? Maybe it is just me, but I would think a ministry would understand the need for a PTSD support dog more than anyone. What are they mulling over?

 

[Friday]

Have they ever seen you have a panic attack?

I've triggered myself on purpose a time or three. Not for something like this, I'm a little notorious for telling people to bite me then, and leaving. But if your service dog isn't registered, so they're not required to allow them, and it's someplace you want to be... Maybe a little first hand experience might change their tune? I'd suggest somewhere private, rather than church on Sunday, but to each their own. If they don't allow your dog, and you still attend, they'll end up with a first hand display on some Sunday, anyway. Having it on your own terms might make things easier.

Perhaps less dramatically, I seem to recall a number of animal related bible quotes. As well as the whole "helping others" thing being a bit of a theme ;).

Where it could get sticky is if they have any members who are allergic to dogs. So they're being asked to choose between someone's physical health & someone's mental health, both of which could get lethal. And both of whom deserve spiritual health.

 

[munkinmama]

it is stupid certification that they are mulling over. And in Canada it is required but not mandatory if that makes sense

 

[Deleted member 28403]

Try explaining that during a panic attack you can't act normally. Thats about how panic attacks work on me. I can't ask for help or it's really hard, and unless someone notices that I'm shaking, trembling and so on, people rarely notice.

I think it's quite unfair of the church not to let you have your calming medi by you. Though I am not sure how churches are atm... Haven't been in one for quite a few years.

Well, good luck and hopefully it goes well. :hug:s if you accept :)

 

[munkinmama]

I did explain some of my triggers and what happens when i have a panic attack, often many people do not realize I am having one. The result of the meeting was when I got home i have had 2 panic attacks just thinking about not having my Service Dog with me.

 

[shimmerz]

I've triggered myself on purpose a time or three.

Agreed. Nothing like a good panic attack or comatose state to encourage people to speed up a a process that is moving as quickly as a herd of turtles. I wouldn't advise through a service, but perhaps during a meeting? Canada is WAY behind in this guide dog thing.

 

[munkinmama]

ugh tell me about it

 

[shimmerz]

Sorry @munkinmama I tried to PM you but couldn't. I would love to know more about how you got your guide dog and your experiences with one in Canada. Is there a way I can contact you so I don't hijack this thread?

 

[StarChild]

Nothing like a good panic attack or comatose state to encourage people to speed up a a process

***And the Standing Ovation goes to.. @shimmerz !!!*** - I really love you for statements like this one!

 

[Sammyiam]

Can you go to another church. Maybe they would be more accepting of you and your dog. I think that it is so wrong that they won't let your dog with you if you sit down the back what harm is it going to do. They need to get with it and become more compassionate and do some of the things that they talk about in their readings.

Good luck

Sammy

 

[Seasounds]

@munkinmama,
It sounds like the church is being legalistic, and controlling
.
Some options;
1. If the law will only protect you, if the dog is certified, and if you want to keep your service dog--who isn't certified, then one question to is, "do you choose your church, or do you choose your service dog?"
2. Have your Provider roadie a letter to your pastor?