Undiagnosed Possible Ptsd Due To Emotional Neglect/disabled Siblings - Anyone Else?

[Cyrene]

My mom told me once that I didn't have to be perfect, but I knew that I did.

Yeah, my mom told me that a couple of times, too. But 1) I don't think the issue is as simple as "oh, Mom said it, now I don't have to worry anymore," probably because 2) it feels like I got such conflicting messages from her. I mean, my parents sort of sheltered my sister for the first couple of years of her life, but then when she started going to school and my parents couldn't get her ready for it sometimes because of work, then I was expected to do caretaking for her -- and then my parents were surprised why I absolutely hated doing such things. It was like taking care of a stranger.

But of course I couldn't say such things because she's my "sister" so I'm supposed to "love" her...

 

[Hashi]

You really need to see a professional to get a diagnosis. No-one here can diagnose you, and I don't think it's helpful to pursue the PTSD possibility when you don't know if it is PTSD or not. If it it PTSD, you need to know that so you can start working in that direction. If it isn't PTSD, you need to know that, so that the help you get is the most appropriate for you.

Are you planning to get a professional diagnosis?

 

[Cyrene]

Yes, I am. As I mentioned in my post, I'm planning on involving my old therapist somehow, whether it's actually going to sessions with her again to let her decide if I need to be referred to a trauma specialist, or just asking her if she can recommend any to me.

 

[Kirjava]

Hello Cyrene!
I am a "normal sibling" like you are. My problem wasn't caused by feeling neglected (or, at least, I don't know if it had anything to do. But I can't say I feel neglected), but it still stems from by brother's illness... I described it in my introduction thread, as well.

 

[ms spock]

Hello and Welcome to MyPTSD Forum.