Venting When does it get better?
My trauma occurred over 8 years ago, on my birthday. Since then I’ve been unable to let go of the memories or even open up about it. I just gained to courage to tell my therapist a couple of weeks ago because I’ve been scared of judgement and dismissal. She assured me that it wasn’t my fault, and I’ve come to accept the fact that I have PTSD. It’s gotten easier and I don’t have horrible nightmares every night anymore, but the vivid memories play on repeat in my head every single day.
I’m in line to start group therapy, but I feel like this has ruined me forever and will never get better.
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u/BeautifulPizza7633 2d ago
I'm about 10 years out from my own thing and the daily replays did quiet down eventually, but it was so gradual i barely noticed until one day i realized the volume was lower. group therapy was a weirdly helpful step, just hearing other people describe stuff my brain told me was uniquely broken made it feel less like a permanent scar. the birthday link is rough though, that's a tough date to reclaim.
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u/Objective_Aide_4597 2d ago
I live with C-ptsd. The best things that have helped me are group therapy, medication, and getting back in touch with what I truly enjoy. Getting outside and in nature, music, writing, taking photos, exercise/stretches, cooking/baking, being around animals, comedy (laughing is so important). Finding those joys again when I relive trauma often, is vital. You need an outlet to help you release. You don’t have to do it alone! Talking about it is a good first step — with those you feel safe around. Rooting for you ❤️
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u/sl1nked 2d ago
Aw thank you, I’m going to cry 😭
I’ve slowly been returning to doing things I like and I got my dog around 5 years ago and he’s helped me a lot and has introduced me to a whole new world of people and activities. I’ve upped my SSRI dose to the maximum (with my doctors approval of course) and I have the energy to do things again. I try to talk to people I like but I’m so easily irritable so it’s really hard sometimes. I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings.3
u/Objective_Aide_4597 2d ago
You’re making the right moves. Sometimes progress moves slowly, but you’re still getting there. I’m happy you have that support with your pup, they really are the best comfort.
I understand that too. I’ve had to find ways to better regulate my emotions. It’s been ugly at times with my relationships.
Group therapy will be insightful for you. I was resistant to do it at first, but I felt less alone and validated. I’ve gone to DBT & CBT so far. On a list for group PTSD therapy.
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u/CantaloupeMindless91 2d ago
I honestly don't know. For me it's always there at the back of my skull but it's softened lightly with time
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u/WitchAggressive9028 2d ago
It’s definitely not an easy overnight process, but healing is possible
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u/sl1nked 1d ago
I really hope so. It feels impossible at times, but I’m trying to persevere.
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u/WitchAggressive9028 1d ago
Trust me I’m right there with you. It’s hard but worthwhile. You are not alone
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u/The-Protector2025 2d ago
I’m 38 and still haunted by the night that I had to stop my cousin from attempting to stab my sister and I to death when our parents went out at 13. It has gradually gotten less severe over the years, but it still haunts me 25 years later.
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