This Is A Big Step For Me!

[Clarity]

Hello everybody!

I am glad to be here, but of course, not glad to need to be here. I am 31 and live in California in the US.

I am a survivor of long-term childhood physical battery/neglect by my caregivers. I was also a victim of sexual abuse as a child. I have been diagnosed with PTSD/CPTSD and I am reaching out for ways to improve my coping strategies.

I am also very interested in finding resources (books people have found helpful, etc.) to recommended to my long-term partner, as I realize I don't fully understand the demands and stresses of his role as a partner of a trauma survivor. I think the info would be helpful for both of us.

This is my first time joining any internet group as a participant. I feel apprehensive about writing this all down and having it be seen by other people. As a PTSD sufferer, I feel anxious being seen by people and not having the "escape" route of anonymity.

I have been in individual therapy for years - it has taken me that long to be capable of reaching out even this much.

But, here I am. Hello. I am very glad to meet everyone.

 

[catjudo]

Welcome to the forum.

 

[kers]

Welcome to the forum. You'll find people here are compassionate and helpful.

Two books I have found especially helpful are Judith Herman's Trauma and Recovery and Jasmine Lee Cori's Healing From Trauma.

 

[moochops]

Thank You so much for making your first step. I have just enjoyed but to this moment have not been able to write and introduce myself. I too am a long term sufferer of 27 years and can't find the words to write.
Thank you for sharing your first steps.
Moochops.

 

[Clarity]

I too am a long term sufferer of 27 years and can't find the words to write.
Moochops.

Hi Moochops:

I would like to hear your story when you are ready to share. I feel better today just from having written and posted the introduction. I hope you will feel safe and better soon!

 

[Clarity]

Hi Kers:

Trauma and Recovery saved my life. The relief of finally finding an accurate description of my experience was intense. I will definitely get Healing From Trauma ASAP.

Thanks so much for the welcome and the book recommendation.

 

[zzzaaabbb]

I am also a long time sufferer with trauma dating back 20 years. I am new to all of this and am trying to cope so this does not affect my current relationships as it already has. It is hard for me as well to reach out. Admitting I need help has been a huge hurdle for me.