The burden of keeping PTSD "secret"

[Paul007]

You're definitely on the right forum for talking more to people that may experience similar symptoms.

I personally don't share very much anywhere, not even on the forums, because the fear of sharing more openly and making myself more vulnerable is very much part of the adult traumas I've experienced and it triggers feelings of trauma and all the panic and thought distortion that a repeat of those traumas are imminent because I've made myself vulnerable by sharing.

Thanks for replying to me

 

[Ice_Fire]

I kept it secret for so long. Ironically, throughout all the time I did, I was definitely a lot more unwell than I am now. Overall, I still have many off days.

When I switched jobs, I didn’t advertise it. But I got to know people and I happen to be working with a bunch of nutters anyway, which helps. They opened up to me, so I reciprocated. My bosses don’t know though, they don’t deserve to or need to frankly.

Personally, I’ve found it easier once people know. Some know more of the why than others but most can sense when I’m not having a good day, or if something has triggered me. And they help out, even if it’s “go take 5”.

As with everything in life though, I guess it depends on the circumstances.

 

[Paul007]

Thanks for replying to me

Thanks for the reply I am so glad I found this site

I kept it secret for so long. Ironically, throughout all the time I did, I was definitely a lot more unwell than I am now. Overall, I still have many off days.

When I switched jobs, I didn’t advertise it. But I got to know people and I happen to be working with a bunch of nutters anyway, which helps. They opened up to me, so I reciprocated. My bosses don’t know though, they don’t deserve to or need to frankly.

Personally, I’ve found it easier once people know. Some know more of the why than others but most can sense when I’m not having a good day, or if something has triggered me. And they help out, even if it’s “go take 5”.

As with everything in life though, I guess it depends on the circumstances.

Is it better to keep it to yourself and the PTSD symptoms etc all inside and don't tell anyone apart from close people?