General Um?

[loyalwife]

Being new here, please bear with me while i try and explain where I'm at. My beautiful partner recently experienced a horrible event so I am watching him closely for signs of distress. So far so good, he's talking to me and not shutting me out and really seems to be doing ok.

The reason I am seeking support is that I am finding it very difficult to hear details of what he went through/saw. It's truly shaking me up to the point of making me feel physically ill. I have to hold it together to help him though, hence I am here. Seeking outside support and advice to keep myself strong.

Although I was not there and was not involved in any way, I am finding I have mental pictures (put together based on imagination and his descriptions of events when he feels the need to talk it out) that are popping up at the most inconvenient times. Is this common for partners/carers of loved ones following a traumatic event?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

 

[loyalwife]

Had trouble sleeping last night after talking to my partner following him seeing some of the other guys that were there and talking about it all. :doh:

 

[Shoka]

Loyalwife,

There is such a thing as "Secondary Trauma", you might google the term and read about it.

Shoka

 

[cyanide]

It sounds like secondary trauma. The most important thing is, while it might be in your mind constantly, is to take care of yourself. Eat well, drink water, exercise, enjoy activities/hobbies, be with friends, "you" time, is essential to keep your strength so that you can support your partner while taking care of yourself.

 

[loyalwife]

Thanks guys. I'll look into that and do some research. I didn't know there was such a thing :smile: