Triggers Impossibleto Avoid Due To Disability

[ButterflyBean]

Hello Everyone,

I could post this in several different forms, so I hope it's okay here! Still figuring the site out, so I'm not sure if anyone saw my post in Trauma Diaries; I didn't get any responses from last night, which seems unusual, so I'm posting my thread again here...

Having CP means I will always deal with medical issues/procedures; it's just a fact of my life! However, it also means my triggers are literally unavoidable, as my trauma involves both the absence of my parents during my last hospital stay and complications/treatment after surgery.

As I said in my introductory post about a week ago, I'm having surgery tomorrow (Monday). I wasn't planning on being admitted, in an effort to avoid triggers and subsequent symptoms, but due to external factors I can't control, going home the same day isn't likely now. My disability makes avoiding triggers absolutely impossible, and I don't know what to do aside from standard coping skills, which don't really work for me anyway...that explanation is for another post!

I am also starting EMDR after my recovery for obvious reasons, but the CP poses atypical concerns/challenges. Additionally, I have to work with a different therapist, as mine doesn't deal with trauma, and seeing someone else is likely to cause another spike in the attachment/abandonment issues I am just starting to deal with! The above is not at the forefront of my mind at this moment, but understandably, my anxiety is at an all time high! I don't know if/how EMDR will work, given aspects of my trauma will always be there, and is likely a multiple reoccurrence, but it's worth my best shot!

I am not looking for advice on the situation, or suggestions for coping; however, support and experiences with EMDR are very welcome!

Thank you for reading and understanding my current needs!

As always, hugs and healing thoughts if you need and/or accept them!

~Holly

 

[Abstract]

Hi Holly,

Welcome here.

I didn't get any responses

I think trauma diary entries can be a little tricky for people sometimes as it is a place where we should all feel free to share details without censorship or shame. And that means possible triggers for others. And depending where people are and what their vulnerabilities are that can mean they have to stay away or be cautious of who they answer and when.

It isn't a personal thing and doesn't indicate that we are not valued or cared about. But I sympathise. I don't think I would manage very well if I wrote something out and was not heard. I would have to have a strategy in place to manage this.

Would you mind sharing what CP stands for?

The situation you are in sounds very hard! And i think you express it well. Having to be exposed to triggers and not being able to avoid them is never a picnic. And i can see how having to see a different therapist is likely to disrupt things further.

I wish you the very best for tomorrow and hope you find it easier than expected and that you manage to ground fairly quickly. Good luck.

 

[The Albatross]

I have no advice on EMDR as that is not available in my area. But welcome and good luck tomorrow on your surgery.

 

[VT86]

Hi Holly,

First off let me say that I haven't read you trauma diary, but it sounds as though you and I have similar triggers. I had an injury that resulted in many traumatic medical procedures and hospitalizations. I'm sorry that you have to constantly be exposed to the very thing that triggers you, and causes so much anxiety.

As for the EMDR, it seems like many have had great success with it. I hope that it helps you like it has for others here.

Good luck with your surgery. I hope all goes well for you.

 

[ButterflyBean]

Thanks for encouragement! My trauma diary is the same post, so you actually did read it, I just posted it the wrong place at first. This is my 19th surgery, but the last one caused my PTSD. I'm still learning what my real triggers are, but the hospital doesn't help my cause at all! It helps to know I'm not the only one though...my trauma isn't abuse, accident, military, or work related, so I felt alone!

Thanks again! I'll let everyone know how everything went as soon as I can! Have a great day!

 

[ButterflyBean]

Hi Abstract,

Thanks for making me feel heard! I didn't know where to post this because it touchs on so many topics that have different forums. I've been through surgery many times, the last in January caused my PTSD. I don't dissociate, I just have flashbacks and nightmares so far, so hopefully it won't be that bad! If I do have to stay tonight, I just need to I'm able to communicate my needs. I wasn't able to last time because of the meds, which was scary because I can't write to begin with. Needless to say, I felt trapped and out of control!

Would you mind sharing what CP stands for?

Sure! CP stands for Cerebral Palsy. It's a condition that effects brain development and movement due to lack of oxygen during birth. I was born two months early, and I don't have any cognitive impairments except a mild learning disability. My difficulties are mainly physical and cooccurring emotional diagnoses. If you have anymore questions, just ask! I'm very open about my disability and don't mind sharing: awareness is key!

Thanks again, and I will post the results as soon as I can! Have a great day and stay well!

~Holly