Relationship When the supporter becomes the sufferer

[RN_Loving_A_Vet]

It has been quite some time since I last posted. I have personally been dealing with so many things on my own along with what my sufferer has been going through. We have been apart a little over two months. Contact has remained very much the same. Texting and phone calls every day. But of course, as for so many of you, it just doesn't compare to physical contact. My sufferer, my vet, has finally reached out for help from the VA. He has had one appointment so far and has a handful of upcoming appointments.
With that being said, I took the advice from a few of the incredibly supportive individuals here and I sought out help for myself. Low and behold, I was screened for and diagnosed with PTSD. It was nothing short of a shock to me. I am not a veteran myself. My PTSD stems from childhood traumas as well as continued trauma throughout much of my adult life. I never knew... it was not until I began to experience feelings of anger, isolation and detachment that I knew something was "off". And the most astounding thing of all, I still offer myself to my vet... my patience, my support, my love.

My question today, in light of the newest developments, is probably one I've already asked or that has been asked by so many others:
How do you keep surviving? Supporting? Hoping? When the one you love continues to tell you day in and day out, "When I begin to get better, I am coming back. Please, don't give up", and time continues to pass by, how do you hold on to hope? I know I am a strong woman, but the more time that passes by the weaker I feel.

 

[Mytime]

I do remember a bit of your posts. You have been going through a lot the last couple of months. I hope your on your own road to recovery. I know it’s hard to not feel weak at times. I think we all have our good days and bad. You still talk everyday and he is still working on himself and he started therapy. Sometimes things can get worse before it gets better. Are you in therapy? Now is the time to focus on you. Get yourself in a good place, like he’s trying. I think it’s a gift, you can give each other. To start a healthy relationship and be able to support each other and most of all yourselfs. You both seem to love each other. Try believing in that and enjoy the little things. I know it’s lonely at times and nothing I say can change that feeling. Just know your not alone.
Sending support and a hug if you except :)