How have you handled this admission of the PTSD Label within a public situation and maintained perhaps a little dignity?
Dear
@Recovery4Me , I am going to be a little bold and try to put one foot in your shoe and one in mine..
You are (to me) strong, ever-learning, always challenging yourself, quick to listen, slow to condemn, thoughtful, kind, intelligent, and have survived very much- are surviving, with great grace and dignity. And with ptsd.
Since the label is out there, it's out there. As is required or IF you have the option, you can choose to NOT share anything you like. Disclosure is not required, and lack of in this instance does not mean dishonesty, it is privacy. I'm reminded, people used to say to my dad, "Could I ask you a question?", he'd say, "Sure!" If he didn't
disclose and they'd press him further or complain he'd say, "I didn't say I would answer".
I was given very wise advice on here once, if you choose to disclose add a healthy amount of info, because usually it will be necessary. If it's partial disclosure, I agree 'anxiety' or 'a medical condition' would be more than enough.
But most of all I think this, and it's tied in to main-stream but only MHO: true people who care, like true friends, will be very rare. More people are motivated by gossip- boredom- power struggles- cliques- one upmanship- or even no interest at all (and even less empathy or understanding). I'm guesstimating here, but I only told one (who was gracious); which would make 3 who knew (one empathetic and loving, one professional), and a 4th that possibly found out (which mortifies me as they cannot stand me).
This may seem unrelated but I think it's hugely so: the best, most trustworthy, most legitimate people I've always found to appear (initially) most gruff, most matter-of-fact, least 'trying' or appearing to be kind, or gentle or compassionate. And yet they are. I have even thought, (rightfully or wrongfully) I consider myself kind, gentle etc (overly so) but I do not look gruff. But actually, I keep to myself, if something evokes tears I stifle them, I try hard to not show I am hurting, I am not interested in gossip, I don't "clique" well, I find some things (or behaviours) phony, outside from the workplace or 'on display' I don't care how I look, 'happy' or 'intelligent' or 'whatever'. So maybe I am 'gruff'.
Each case, each moment, each step, you can choose what at the time feels 'right' and more comfortable for you.
If these people have any character or are worth their salt at all, they will come to love you and your company very quickly. That I know. :)
And I think the older we get, and the less we try to manipulate others or worry about creating or maintaining a (false) image, the less 'unreal' we are. But disclosure is optional. Or rather-selective.
Not sure if that helps
@Recovery4Me . I'm Blessed and proud to call you my friend :notworthy:, the ptsd is just icing on the cake. :):inlove:
:hug::hug::hug::notworthy:
