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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Mel_66
Mel_66

Hi Everyone,


I am new to this type of forum, but my psychiatrist recommended that he thought it could be helpful.  I was diagnosed with PTSD about 8 years ago and every year on the anniversary of the event I struggle.  My anxiety increases, it is harder to function, and even leave the house at times.  I feel like in 8 years I shouldn't still be having this much trouble and struggling.  I know I have been told that PTSD can be a lifelong thing, but this is hard for me to accept.  Has anyone else had these feelings or problems with the anniversay of events year after year?  

GuyFromNY
GuyFromNY
Welcome to the crowd. Yes its perfectly normal to trigger on/around the anniversary of the event. I did for 20 years. You will also find things you dont understand happening and thats completely perfectly okay. We all know similar circumstances as our traumas give similar reactions to us all. Youre in good company
Community LeaderSunCloudJD
SunCloudJD
Welcome to the board Mel.... This is a good place to come... . A lot of people on here really struggle with anniversaries

I'm sorry for what's brought you here but glad that you've found us.... Big hug... xo
Community Leadermujicaptsd
mujicaptsd
Welcome, Mel, I know how you feel. Especially about those anniversaries. Mine happens to be Christmas, so that makes it hard to find support out there offline without coming off like a Grinch. Folks here get it and really help. We're glad you found us.
2magicman
2magicman
Hi Mel welcome. I can so relate to what you say about anniversaries. Mine is coming up shortly. On July 2 1979 i was abducted at gun point while camping with my family. The only way i can find some comfort is being around my family because i was thinking about them the entire time i was missing. But i never gave up hope that i would be back with my family. We are glad you found us here. You have come to the right place. Never give up.

Scott
Mel_66
Mel_66
Thank you so much for the responses. My anniversary is at the end of June in a couple of days but it is hitting me harder this year. It is nice to read your responses and know that I'm not must crazy or weak for this still bothering me and making me feel dysregulated and anxious. I know I have been told by doctors that this happens but hearing from others with PTSD and real life experience helps me to understand better that this is normal and that I'm not alone. A gun was involved and I also dread July 4th and holidays with fireworks as the noises just amp me up like crazy.

Again thank you so much for all of the support and helping to validate what I'm going through. I'm glad I found this group!
Community LeaderLeo
Leo
Bit late, sorry, but welcome :-)
EMC2
EMC2
Welcome Mel, glad you found us... you're not alone, I too have a lot of trouble with anniversaries, but you found the right place...
Mel_66
Mel_66
Thank you everyone. I am still struggling and just hoping the days get easier the farther away that the anniversary gets. I had another panic attack and they are just so exhausting. I feel like my brain can barely function and just going to work is a chore. I sat in my car fighting back tears for about 15 minutes before I could even go in and just face the day. This can be so hard at times.
ANorthernSoul
ANorthernSoul
Welcome Mel, I read in Pete Walkers book that complex PTSD that parts of the brain can heal over time from PTSD. So that gives me hope. Wishing you all the best
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