Why don’t I act like other abuse victims?

[LeiaFlower]

It makes me wonder if it’s all in my head. Confabulations. Trying to name sense to simple things. Why don’t I have flashbacks like other victims? Why am I not triggered by abuse similar to mine or abuse in general? I don’t want to overwhelm the system by asking more. I don’t know. It just feels like I’m just making it all up for attention.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

It makes me wonder if it’s all in my head. Confabulations. Trying to name sense to simple things. Why don’t I have flashbacks like other victims? Why am I not triggered by abuse similar to mine or abuse in general? I don’t want to overwhelm the system by asking more. I don’t know. It just feels like I’m just making it all up for attention.

I hear that you're questioning your experiences and the validity of your symptoms, and it must be difficult to feel uncertain about what you're going through. It's not uncommon for survivors of trauma to have doubts or question the legitimacy of their experiences. It's important to remember that trauma affects individuals differently, and everyone's response can vary.

While flashbacks and triggers are common symptoms of PTSD, it doesn't mean that every survivor experiences them in the same way or at all. PTSD manifests in various ways, and individuals may have different symptoms or coping mechanisms. It's important to remember that your experience is unique to you, and there isn't a specific "right" way to respond to trauma.

Self-doubt and feelings of "making it all up" can be common for individuals with PTSD. It's crucial to acknowledge that these thoughts are part of the condition and not an accurate reflection of reality. Have you considered discussing your doubts and concerns with a mental health professional? They can provide you with support and help you explore your experiences in a safe and non-judgmental space.

In the meantime, I encourage you to practice self-care and reach out for support when you need it. Remember that healing is a journey, and it's important to be gentle with yourself along the way. How are you currently taking care of yourself?

 

[LeiaFlower]

I hear that you're questioning your experiences and the validity of your symptoms, and it must be difficult to feel uncertain about what you're going through. It's not uncommon for survivors of trauma to have doubts or question the legitimacy of their experiences. It's important to remember that trauma affects individuals differently, and everyone's response can vary.

While flashbacks and triggers are common symptoms of PTSD, it doesn't mean that every survivor experiences them in the same way or at all. PTSD manifests in various ways, and individuals may have different symptoms or coping mechanisms. It's important to remember that your experience is unique to you, and there isn't a specific "right" way to respond to trauma.

Self-doubt and feelings of "making it all up" can be common for individuals with PTSD. It's crucial to acknowledge that these thoughts are part of the condition and not an accurate reflection of reality. Have you considered discussing your doubts and concerns with a mental health professional? They can provide you with support and help you explore your experiences in a safe and non-judgmental space.

In the meantime, I encourage you to practice self-care and reach out for support when you need it. Remember that healing is a journey, and it's important to be gentle with yourself along the way. How are you currently taking care of yourself?

I guess I just wish I felt an emotional connection towards my trauma like my siblings. There trauma feels real. Mine didn’t resurface until I started therapy. I have mentioned my doubts to my current therapist a few times. However, I don’t know how to move past this. I feel like it’s a back forth in believing my abuse happened and then not believing. I understand I’m not alone in this, but it feels like imposter syndrome to even be on this site.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

I guess I just wish I felt an emotional connection towards my trauma like my siblings. There trauma feels real. Mine didn’t resurface until I started therapy. I have mentioned my doubts to my current therapist a few times. However, I don’t know how to move past this. I feel like it’s a back forth in believing my abuse happened and then not believing. I understand I’m not alone in this, but it feels like imposter syndrome to even be on this site.

It can be challenging when you see others experiencing a strong emotional connection to their trauma while you may struggle to feel the same way. It's important to remember that everyone's healing journey is unique, and there is no "right" or "normal" way to respond to trauma.

Imposter syndrome, or feeling like you don't belong or deserve to be on this site, is not uncommon for individuals with PTSD. These feelings can stem from self-doubt, fear of judgment, or internalized beliefs. It's important to recognize that you are not alone in experiencing these thoughts and that your experiences are valid.

You mentioned discussing your doubts with your current therapist. Have they offered any guidance or suggestions on how to address these doubts and move forward in your healing process? It may be helpful to continue exploring this topic with your therapist and discuss any specific concerns or fears you have about your trauma.

Additionally, it might be beneficial to reach out to a trauma-focused therapist who specializes in complex trauma and dissociation. They can provide you with specialized support and strategies to address the confusion and doubt you're experiencing. Remember that seeking help and guidance is a sign of strength and a step toward healing.

In the meantime, practicing self-compassion and self-care can be essential in managing these doubts. Is there anything that currently brings you comfort or helps you feel grounded?

 

[LeiaFlower]

Yeah, I’ve discussed my doubts with my complex trauma informed therapist before. It was more so me talking about my doubts than getting much advice on how to deal with it. If you have any advice on how to stop the self doubt of my trauma I’d appreciate it. My therapist mostly said general things about it being normal and I won’t always feel this way. Which was not very helpful.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

Yeah, I’ve discussed my doubts with my complex trauma informed therapist before. It was more so me talking about my doubts than getting much advice on how to deal with it. If you have any advice on how to stop the self doubt of my trauma I’d appreciate it. My therapist mostly said general things about it being normal and I won’t always feel this way. Which was not very helpful.

I can understand how frustrating it may be to not receive specific guidance or strategies from your therapist regarding your self-doubt about your trauma. It's important to feel supported and receive actionable advice on how to navigate these difficult thoughts.

While I cannot provide therapy or a substitute for professional help, I can offer some general suggestions that may be helpful in addressing self-doubt:

1. Educate yourself about trauma: Learning more about trauma and its effects can help you gain a deeper understanding of your own experiences. This knowledge can provide validation and help combat self-doubt.

2. Engage in grounding exercises: Grounding exercises can help you feel more present in the moment and connected to yourself. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or grounding objects can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and doubts.

3. Validate your own experiences: Remind yourself that your experiences are valid, regardless of how they may differ from others. Recognize that trauma affects individuals uniquely, and your response is valid in its own right.

4. Seek additional support: Consider reaching out to a trauma-focused support group or seeking a second opinion from a different therapist. Connecting with others who have had similar experiences can provide validation and reassurance.

5. Journaling: Write down your thoughts and doubts about your trauma. This can provide a space for reflection and help you identify patterns or gain insights into your experiences.

6. Self-compassion practice: Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Remind yourself that struggling with doubt is a common part of the healing process. Practice self-compassion by challenging negative self-talk and replacing it with more supportive and understanding thoughts.

Remember, it's important to continue working with a mental health professional who can provide you with personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.

 

[LeiaFlower]

I can understand how frustrating it may be to not receive specific guidance or strategies from your therapist regarding your self-doubt about your trauma. It's important to feel supported and receive actionable advice on how to navigate these difficult thoughts.

While I cannot provide therapy or a substitute for professional help, I can offer some general suggestions that may be helpful in addressing self-doubt:

1. Educate yourself about trauma: Learning more about trauma and its effects can help you gain a deeper understanding of your own experiences. This knowledge can provide validation and help combat self-doubt.

2. Engage in grounding exercises: Grounding exercises can help you feel more present in the moment and connected to yourself. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or grounding objects can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and doubts.

3. Validate your own experiences: Remind yourself that your experiences are valid, regardless of how they may differ from others. Recognize that trauma affects individuals uniquely, and your response is valid in its own right.

4. Seek additional support: Consider reaching out to a trauma-focused support group or seeking a second opinion from a different therapist. Connecting with others who have had similar experiences can provide validation and reassurance.

5. Journaling: Write down your thoughts and doubts about your trauma. This can provide a space for reflection and help you identify patterns or gain insights into your experiences.

6. Self-compassion practice: Treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Remind yourself that struggling with doubt is a common part of the healing process. Practice self-compassion by challenging negative self-talk and replacing it with more supportive and understanding thoughts.

Remember, it's important to continue working with a mental health professional who can provide you with personalized guidance and support tailored to your specific needs.

Thank you, I’ll try these out.

 

[Dr. Catalyst]

Thank you, I’ll try these out.

You're welcome! I'm glad to hear that you're open to trying these suggestions. Remember to be patient and kind to yourself throughout this process. Healing takes time, and it's important to give yourself credit for the progress you make. If you ever need further support or have more questions, please don't hesitate to reach out. You're not alone in this. Take care!