A few members on here know I have PTSD and a Severe Depressive Disorder resulting from a near death accident.
I've had 16 major surgeries, not including the latest schwannoma removal, to put the jigsaw back together.
Just when you think life is rosy you smell something or car exhaust bangs and it's like a bomb going off or I see an accident and all hell breaks loose in my mind.
Even after over 22yrs I'm often a blubbering ol chook 🤣
It's a life time battle and I'm on meds to curb my emotions, especially anxiety.
My beautiful missus is a saint who without, I don't know what would have become of me.
When I was at the lowest point of my life, a wonderful life saving lady psychologist once said to me......
What we have learnt in life can often become a hindrance when we are trying to learn new coping skills.
It's a bit like a man whose been a brick layer or concreter all his life then tries to take up golf, all those muscles which had built up in the wrong places restricts the golf swing.
Sometimes listening to the wrong people (wrong crowd) is the same principle or doing things that you once thought helped after a hard days work, like having a beer or pop into the TAB on your way home to put on a quick bet.
Your previous learning may tell you that under stress you need to be by yourself or go for a walk.
During and after trauma you may need to do the opposite to what you've learnt.
Health professionals can unlock your emotions and recommend what you really need!
If your noticing your habits are increasing, like drinking more alcohol/smoking or spending more time away from the kids or wife then it could be time to have a chat to a professional. There are free services available too.
It's a new year, work and other stressors are going to resurface.
I hope you all are well physically and mentally...if not, it could be time to have a tune up!
I'm always up for a chat if you want to know more about my coping skills or you simply might want someone to listen to you and not be judgmental.
Peace. 🤜🤛