Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Support Group

Of course this would really depend on what you enjoy. But personally, I've found traveling to be great therapy. There are a lot of careers for people who are willing to travel. Teaching English in foreign countries is a big one. Also a lot of military bases have contract companies that hire subcontracters for various positions. Maybe a change of scenery would help?

Warry,

Big decision to change the path of your life--especially if the path you were on was hurting you. I did the same thing 10 years ago, and although I STILL believe my "plan" was solid, I run into trouble along the way.

As I exited therapy (PTSD DX), I began "reinventing" myself. Armed with almost five years of therapy (from qualified helpers, thankfully, who were also good role models), I ventured off to make the plan happen. I sat down and for six months--maybe longer, looked closely at what matter to me more than anything in life, and created a new profile of myself. That was the basis of the plan.

I wanted to remove myself from the state where I lived (where the traumas had occurred), find a reasonably decent job that I was reasonably happy with, meet a good man, and God willing raise a family.

Seems simple enough!
I've since been faced with homelessness about a dozen times, actually wound up homeless twice (once for several months), have moved 25(!) times (5 states, 14 cities).

What went wrong?

I can't say I did not have any support along the way, but it wasn't exactly the support that I needed (apparently!) To say that a failure had occurred is an understatement.

Long story.

Lack of appropriate social support is what basically resulted in the failure.

Here's an example...

Faced with homelessness, a new acquaintance offers to help with a place to stay. I travel 90 miles only to have her turn her cheek on me. "We think your PTSD is getting in the way of your funtioning."

And turning your cheek on my, allowing me (consequently) to remain outside like a dog...had NUFFIN' to do with it?!

She later responds to me in this sarcastic tone of voice...

"How could YOU be homeless?! Why YOU'RE an "upstanding person in the community?!"

Witch!!!

Another one...

"Why she's just a princess who wants to live in a fairy-tale land."

And another (while approaching a nurse while homeless..""

"Nobody wants to help you 'cuz you're too needy."

Okay, I've tried leaving here and haven't been able to get out for seven years.

I just recently found a few people who are truly helping. The police have been understanding and good here, too.

Don't know if it's any easier for a male, but catching trains and going across the other side of the country isn't easy for a single woman (hey, not to mention homelessness).

Lessson learned...

Try your best to be sure you have appropriate support.
Sit down and spend some time with a plan. (I still believe my plan was solid).

I vented a bit here, and for this I apologize.

I am grateful for shelter, food, etc. I am grateful for the help I have now. A setback yesterday has caused me to feel very bitter, angry, and defensive today.

Regardless, I hope this was somewhat helpful.

A plan is key!

Have you already decided what alternate type/s of work you can do?

(Excuse me please for not clarifying this earlier)