Ptsd Couple

[PTSD Couple]

My husband and I both suffer from PTSD and had seen the same therapist for years until he had to teach others his expertise. We have been without therapy for a year now and have been together for over 20 years. I'm getting exhausted by being called horrible names for no reason. My therapy I think worked out better than his as my trauma wasn't as severe as his. I just don't know what to do, because his reactions to things trigger my suicidal and addiction reaction to things. But I also understand the hell he is going through. What do I do?

 

[watundah]

Can he or both of you find another thaerapist? At least he went before so may be open to some anger managememt work - no one deserves to be called names. Change is so stinkin hard but you gotta look out for yourself. Next time, I would simply say "I dont deserve to be treated this way and will not tolerate your abuse." then leave...library, coffeehoise, friends? He may get tired of finding himself alone.

 

[Powder]

Does your husband have C-PTSD from child abuse? Even if not, I suggest he work with Pete Walker's website and maybe order one of his books.

It sounds like his Inner/Outer Critic is acting up. He is being overly self-critical, thinking negative self-image thoughts, and these are erupting outward?

I am not an expert and cannot be sure of anything based on a post, but that is the theory presented by Walker for C PTSD sufferers. Frankly, it's so part of the human condition to be one's own worst critic that it could apply easily to anyone under the right conditions.

I read Walker's book "From Surviving to Thriving" (I forget the full title) and found that this concept alone helped me identify when "I'm doing that" and feel in control of it and stop it from getting that far.

Self-acceptance and compassion will be your husband's best friend. He needs to practice "thought stopping" whenever he catches himself thinking a self-hating or self-critical thought. He should be in therapy to really ensure this is taking hold.

 

[PTSD Couple]

Does your husband have C-PTSD from child abuse? Even if not, I suggest he work with Pete Walker's website a...

Thank you both. I know we need to get back to therapy and have just kept putting it off telling myself we're fine, but we're not fine. Will look into it today. Again thank you..

 

[.45 Princess]

My husband and I both suffer from PTSD and had seen the same therapist for years until he had to teach others his...

My boyfriend and I both suffer PTSD as well so I can empathize with your pain.
We're having a really rough patch at the moment (especially this week as well).

I don't think your therapist should have said anything about whose PTSD is worse. Trauma is trauma and it should never be minimized. I'm sorry you are going through this.

 

[Powder]

I agree, no such thing as worse. Comparing is inherently lame.

In fact, I think those who have "PTSD-light" as far as others are concerned are simply Internalizing all the horribleness. Just wait until the tank's full!
:eek: I speak of myself, of course. :banghead: