I have been really struggling with flashbacks of a trauma (PTSD) for which I am getting counselling and medication. I could not manage without the counselling, but I don't think the tablets are working yet. These flashbacks frighten me so much that today I can't get rid of the pain they are causing me inside. I have now started imagining getting rid of that pain by hurting myself and I know that is not the way to go.
Does anyone else get these thoughts and do you have any way of stopping them and calming yourself down?
I would appreciate any helpful advice anyone can give. Thanks
Answer:
I wish you had mentioned how long you've been on the medication. Medication can take weeks to get into your system and up to a theraputic level where its actually helpful to you. But since your seeing a couseler anyways I would encourage you to contact your couseler and tell them what you are experiencing right now. Maybe they can get you in for an emergency session to help you find a way to cope with these things. It might be a good idea to ask your doctor about an anxiety medicine too, so when you have these "attacks" you can take something right then to help calm your nerves.
Hi I get them all the time it makes my life real hell at times. try and do something anything that will stop you from thinking of hurting yourself, I really do understand how hard it is. good luck Lisa
i have these but unfortunately i do self harm to get rid of the pain but i have been recommended to grip an ice cube in your hand til the feeling goes away so im going to try that next time instead
Frankly, i can hardly imagine life without intrusive thoughts. The difference is in how you take it. The attitude. The initial response is "fight or flight" you a fearing, you want to run away. Don't fear. None can hurt you. Let them flow by clicking in different parts of the brains, while you keep calm. Sounds like meditation? In fact it is. Its a powerful technique to deal with your mental conditions. Don't play the fear's game. Feel good.
Whenever I feel like cutting myself I make a point of spending time with people, no matter how much I don't feel like it. Since I'm not likely to do it when there are people about. Or I listen to some calming music or go a cycle. Apparently exercise is meant to be really helpful. Sometimes I pluck my knee hair, it sounds weird I know but still. It just relaxes me, I guess everyone has little bad habits like that. Maybe you just need to find yours.
It doesn't always work though. I know what you mean about the tablets, I can't work out if they are a help or not half the time. If you find something that does let me know!
Remember that you have value - both spiritually and physically. We have all had negative experiences. Most of them are not our fault.
Harming yourself because of something someone else has done to you is not the right approach - although sometimes that seems to be the only way to deal with it.
Try to take positive action - such as working on or doing something you have a passion for. Meditation or prayer can be a powerful tool.
Hypnotherapy is also an option.
I hope this helps.
Smetimes I get thoughts about causing physical pain to other people!
Read a book called:
'Imp of the Mind - exploring the silent epidemic of obsessive bad thoughts' by Lee Baer.
Other than that, please try to keep bust, when you feel a dark mood coming on, distract yourself. Talk to other people. Ring a helpline if it gets really bad. Learn to knit!
Just don't start cutting, as from everything I've heard it can be a very hard habit to break.
Are you getting any therapy for your PTSD? If not, ask your GP to be put on a waiting list.
Hi Tracey,
I have just asked a question regarding flashbacks so if you have any advice for me i would appreciate it. i think its great that you have managed to get help for your PTSD, i have hurt myself before to get rid of mental pain...it didnt work for me and i knew i would end up getting addicted to it and then be trapped in it like i was with bulimia so the sensible part of me stopped it i guess. Its great that you have a good relationship with ur counsellor and i think you need to tell him/her about your feelings she may be abl eto give you some better coping techniques. i am sorryyou are suffering
best of luck
xxxxx
No.
See my answer today to kirstthe worst.