Trying To Understand Relapses In Symptoms

[Meadowsweet]

I've had quite a long run in which my symptoms were non-existent most of the time and when they did come up, I have been able to manage them and stop them from escalating.

Then about 4 weeks ago I felt on edge and anxious, and I took action to manage that, which I did. But then a week or so ago something did trigger me and I lost control of my mind and wasn't able to manage to stop it escalating. I could feel myself sliding and was unable to stop it or to grasp how to manage it = the PTSD took control.

The past couple of days have been like being back several years. The only difference being is that I know what's wrong with me, so today I'm picking up a bit and dissociating less, and am doing the things I need to do to manage my symptoms.

But why did I lost that ability, what happened?

 

[falling_wave]

I think triggers can set us back but we need to realize we now have a lot more tools to get up and going faster. Learning new things or working through complex trauma can shift everything that we already know around and some improvements can slip temporarily while we try to make room for more.

 

[Meadowsweet]

Thank you falling wave. I'm feeling very frustrated and down about the whole thing at the moment. Like what's the point in trying if I'm never going to win.

 

[hodge]

Triggers can definitely set us back. I think it would be wise to try to accept that PSDT is a life-long syndrome. I was diagnosed in 2006, though I think I had symptoms from 2002. I have struggled ever since. You may be lucky enough to have had long periods without symptoms, but something can always set us back. Just remember your coping skills. This is something we can beat, day by day.