PTSD - The Positive Bit

[Iam]

I like this thread. I think we can change for the good because of PTSD. My T pointed out than I am very intuitive and he thinks it's because of the PTSD. He also pointed out that because of PTSD I am doing far more work on myself and understand myself better than somebody who has never had to confront themselves. I believe I am a compassionate person by nature, but I do believe that (when I am doing OK) I am more compassionate and less judgemental because of the problems I have suffered as a result of having PTSD.

Anybody else have any positives because of it?

 

[just me here]

Ok, I might not see the whole enchilada from here deep inside the refried beans.

I was a much better canoe owner after I had rolled it, maybe I am a better human for having been upside down a few times too.

It is hard for me to think that hurting like this is anything more than just hurting, but maybe awareness and being able to truly empathize with a broader range of emotions makes me a better person. I will accept that. Thanks for pushing the point junebug, sometimes I just take a little longer than the average bear.

 

[Tinyflame]

Just me here, you are much wiser and sweeter than you recognize. I think you wouldn't feel what you do (such as angry or indignant etc), if you felt people should be treated as you were treated. I am sorry you were treated that way- it is my fear too and my limited experience of it. However, then I think of those who don't respond or act that way- like you on this forum- and I am very very grateful. And I think to myself, I will concentrate on people like that who have words of understanding, empathy and hope, and that makes me feel better.

And hey.. Enchiladas are great! -See, you made me laugh- seriously.

Upside-down-with-you,
Meg :)

 

[James B.]

Not sure I see a ton of good things in the actual PTSD. But the path of healing is another thing. The changes I need to make, and ones I have made are helping me in ways I hadn't anticipated. The process of dealing with my trauma, while painful, has given me something like the experience of a lifetime. And there's certainly more to follow.

Because my trauma was so prolonged, and because it was serious and my overall losses were catastrophic, I am challenged to look at my life, and my relationship with the external world in a new way. I am challenged to deal with the age old dilemma: I cannot change the world, only myself. For me this is a pivotal and important fact. Little things: not letting others control my emotions. This alone has given rise to entire new ideas for me, new tools and attitudes that may have positive implications for my future, as yet unknown.

 

[anni]

I have a tough time remembering who I was before all this, Seedling-it was so long ago, and the thing went on for some years. Think I got kind of mangled in there through time, but oh my, I do see what you're saying. I think maybe if I had a clearer memory, or indication of who that person was, maybe would miss being her. I do think it's tougher, remembering the pre-person better, having to come to terms with all this chaos. Funny, ( not haha ), but can't really remember the transition, either-it must have been sort of insidious. I'm sure this makes it easier to be able to view things that feel they grew out of this PTSD existence as perhaps positive.

Having said that, it would be rather nice to remember who THAT person was, all those years ago, if that makes any sense.

 

[Iam]

I don't think it's bad to remember who we were pre trauma Anni (or in my case who I could have been), but we can't go back. We will never be "that" person again. We are changed by everything we experience, both the good and the bad.

I think it is more who we can be now. What can we learn as a result of our PTSD that we can use for positive. People who don't have these major issues to deal with don't have to look deep within so many don't. You have so many talents and wonderful characteristics Anni. Those are the things we can concentrate on and strenghten. Maybe we never would have if we didnt' have PTSD.

 

[louisa]

Hi,

Just a quick one for 'Just Me Here', I know what you mean and didn't mean it the way it may have come across, so sorry. I hope you know what I mean. Am not feeling very articulate today. But, I'd just like to say I've really enjoyed reading everyones thoughts on this and it's been very helpful,

Best wishes to everyone,

Love Louisa

 

[just me here]

back at ya, Louisa, I never had a negative thought about anyones post here, in fact I would have to say this has been one of the most helpful threads for me, I grew a good inch or two with your help. Thanks.