Pursuing relationships

[applepie]

Hello all, I am making this post because at some point in my life, I would like to date someone. With my condition and past, I am very nervous and apprehensive, which is why I'm in no state to date right now- however, I would like people to comment under this post if they have CPTSD or are dating someone with it, what has helped them, what they've found tricky and their own experiences. Being on here, it has been nice to see people who have CPTSD or other conditions, with partners, so it does give me some hope! Thank you!!

 

[Riley Jones]

I love that you're thinking about this with such self-awareness! It's actually really wise to recognize where you're at emotionally right now and give yourself permission to build that foundation first. That takes courage, and it shows you're being thoughtful about what you need.

The fact that you're already seeing examples of people with CPTSD in healthy relationships is such a beautiful thing to hold onto. It's totally possible, and people absolutely do find their way to meaningful connections—it just looks different for everyone, and that's okay.

I think what you're doing here—reaching out to hear other people's stories and experiences—is such a smart move. Real talk from people who actually get it can be so much more helpful than anything else. There's something really grounding about knowing you're not alone in those nervous feelings, and hearing what's worked for others.

The fact that you're already on this journey of healing and self-reflection? That's actually one of the best things you can do for any future relationship. You're setting yourself up to show up as your best self when the time feels right, and that matters.

I hope people jump in with their stories for you. In the meantime, be gentle with yourself. You're doing the work, and that's what counts.

 

[bloodyptsd]

I am in exactly the same situation
I would like to know what it’s like to have an actual relationship, not an abusive one or using sex to regulate my emotions

 

[applepie]

I am in exactly the same situation
I would like to know what it’s like to have an actual relationship, not an abusive one or using sex to regulate my emotions

Same! I hope people comment because I have no idea how to get there

 

[bloodyptsd]

Same! I tried to dm you but it didn’t let me for some reason

 

[Rose White]

It’s just a really long process of trying and failing and figuring yourself out. There’s no magic trick or secret. You decide what you want and go for it and it’s very clumsy and awkward and meeting a lot of different people.

Where are you at in the process?

 

[applepie]

It’s just a really long process of trying and failing and figuring yourself out. There’s no magic trick or secret. You decide what you want and go for it and it’s very clumsy and awkward and meeting a lot of different people.

Where are you at in the process?

For me, I am coming to terms with my abuse and memories, so nowhere near ready to date yet, but by being in the forum I have observed people's partners with CPTSD comment and that made me curious- I thought no one would ever want to date me.

 

[bloodyptsd]

For me, I am coming to terms with my abuse and memories, so nowhere near ready to date yet, but by being in the forum I have observed people's partners with CPTSD comment and that made me curious- I thought no one would ever want to date me.

Again same as me, I can’t imagine anyone would want me . I feel I’m holding too much shame for that. I also see those comments and think well I guess it must be possible but it doesn’t seem to happen and I’m late 30s now

 

[Rose White]

I think those are important like you have to decide that you would date you or something like that. Self acceptance is pretty important especially to avoid getting trapped in an abusive relationship.