Overly Jumpy And Easily Scared

[lindsays1992]

Hey everyone,

I was sexually assaulted about 10 years ago and developed PTSD as a result. One symptom that I have that really bothers me at times is that I'm extremely jumpy, and I scare easily. Sometimes, even if I see a person approaching me, but I'm not really paying attention, I'll still jump if they say something to me. And horror movies are the worst because I anticipate the scary moments and actually have to hold onto something to try and make me jump less. Sometimes, it's not always bad, like when my boyfriend makes me jump, I usually laugh. I don't know if I necessarily have a question about it. I guess I'm just wondering if other people have this and how do you cope with it.

 

[Truthful_Whispers]

You will have to let everyone in your circle know that you can only be approached within line of sight (so you see them coming). And, tell them no sneaking up surprises, because they trigger you.

 

[illusionist]

I've tried working on this for years and do realise now that it's something that I will always experience, though the time of coming down has lessened. As already suggested, just let those close to you know....saying that, I've found that people laughing does tend to help me get out of the startle mode quicker...I've seen me going from the tearful mode to laughing with them.....don't know how it works, but it does.

 

[ReachingOutJ]

This is how I am lately when I wake up. Even when my boyfriend is just joking, it scares me so much; even through my medication.