Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support Group

Maybe I'm looking at my PTSD too negatively? I opened a thread about not feeling strong. Now I have this on my mind. But I question the word 'survivor' for people with PTSD, most specifically with sex abuse issues.

This is my thinking:
Survivor: when it is from Cancer, then the tumors are in remission and you do go back to a healthy(er) state than when the Cancer was up. But this is a physical malady you literally survive or tragically don't.

With mental injuries like PTSD the malady doesn't go into recession. Having had PTSD for 50 years, the healing feels glacially slow. I have not gotten past it, nor over it, when the lucky (or in denial) said I should have. But I will admit I am stronger than I ever imagined I would be. I'm amazed I'm still alive and functioning. I am doing pretty well considering the torture and mayhem I'm lived. Is this why I'm a survivor? Because as 51% pointed out we are resilient? I just don't want people thinking I'm a "survivor' means I'm over it and don't suffer anymore. I think it takes strength to survive PTSD. Am I a survivor because I'm still alive, with friends, and love, and spirituality, and nightmares, and chronic crisis, and general anxiety? What is the definition of a 'Survivor"?
Posted on 01/01/13, 08:42 pm