I've always trusted people, probably too much too fast. Then I met H and he was the complete opposite. We have both changed, and we're starting to meet in the middle with the trust thing. I'm learning that people can be cruel at times and should not always be trusted. H is learning that there are some really good intentioned people out there and sometimes it helps to talk to people. I must say though, I miss thinking so highly of people.
Personally, I don't want to tell anyone who assumes they know about ptsd and won't learn more about because of their assumption. I don't want to tell people who don't "believe in" ptsd. I don't want to tell people who will see it as a weakness and assume he should just "move on". I don't want to tell people who would have no interest in some sort of support for us (even it's just a quick few words to let us know they understand or would like to). I don't want to tell people that there is no point in telling.
we have only told those that H has approved of, which has only been family. My parents, who have listened to some of my rants, ask occasionally how we are doing, have learned more about ptsd and my dad has even gone out for coffee with H a few times and listened to his rants. They have been amazing for both of us. I told my sister who is a social worker. She did a quick study on ptsd in school, but ptsd was not her focus so her understanding is only just above the average person. She is wonderful though and Sends emails of workshops on ptsd. She has found some places for counselling and info for me. We told my brother and his wife. H told his boss. H told his two sisters. Not ready to tell his mom because he says she worries more then he does. His brother, we suspect may have ptsd as well. One of his sisters asked me for more info on ptsd and how it affects H. After I told her she said that it made perfect sense and described H well.
We have not told on of my brothers because H used to work for him. My brother was under a lot of stress that summer and with his anger, triggered H a lot. It was really difficult for H to work for him. On top of that, as well meaning as him and his wife are, they have strong opinions and we really don't k.ow how they would take it. Its odd that they are the only ones in my immediate family who don't know though.
I have a few friends who I'd like to tell because I think they would understand. One of them is with a guy who has a lot of anxiety and she often talks o me about it. But I haven't told any friends because H doesn't see the point and I don't know how to explain it to him...just waiting for him to get more used to his diagnosis I guess...
