Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Support Group

Find support with others who have gone through a traumatic experience. Whether you have chronic or acute PTSD, we are here for you.

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Holding onto hope.

itasca
itasca
Sometimes this PTSD just seems like a hopeless situation. I've learned that tomorrow is usually better and feel lucky I have family and friends to turn to when I'm feeling lousy. Relying on others can be hard and it makes me feel needy. I had a bad bout with PTSD 20 yrs ago and had a really good support system. This time, not so much, and it seems it's taking me forever to get through this. It's been 4 years this time. Has anyone else had it last this long?
52yrs2long
52yrs2long
Well, I am 52 and have probably been living with this thing for almost 52 years. I have been in treatment for it for a year. The people here are wonderful. They are knowledgeable, caring and loving. Hanging here on a daily basis sharing your thoughts and asking questions will help a lot. I hope you feel better.
TenativeOne
TenativeOne
Now in my late 40s, have had PTSD most likely most of my life, starting very young... for years unsure what was wrong with me, in & out of therapy, they finally named it 5 years ago. Although it might help to frame my experiences & they keep saying there is plenty of therapy out there to help, but finding what works, not easy.

What I do know, is that self-care is of the utmost importance... although I still fall down in the area, just keep going, trying... the way I see it, most people around you are pretty messed up too... so we fit right in. Show me a person who is healthy & 'normal'... I'll show you someone who may not have confronted all of their demons.

As I've heard others say on this forum, ya just never know what others are dealing with... so just have compassion for yourself & others... be gentle with yourself... :)
freefrompain2015
freefrompain2015
Having support is one of the most important things. My wife has been my rock for many years. Sometimes your mind can be your own worce enemany. I know for me I never wanted to leave the house, everything scared me. Which is a bad place to be. Hope is sometimes all you have. I wish their was one thing I could say that would take the hurt and fear away.
Community Leadermujicaptsd
mujicaptsd
Itasca, you said you've been struggling for 4 years. Me, too. I had a bad bout 4 years ago from which I'm recovering, thankfully. Coming here has made all the difference, so I'm glad you're here.

But your comment about yours 20 years ago made me do a timeline of when I've had periods of major PTSD difficulty. I had another 15 years ago, that put me in the hospital. Before that I had one 30 years ago. And my first ever was 42 years ago, that put me in the hospital, too.

So in answer to your question, yes. Though I'd certainly accept a cure in a second, I've come to understand it as a chronic disorder for me.
itasca
itasca
Thank you all for your caring thoughts. It means a lot to me.