I thought only soldiers got PTSD, too, even though I got it in a combat zone. I was a missionary kid, not military, though, so I convinced myself it couldn't be until a VA doctor explained to me otherwise.

When I first came here to DS PTSD, folks shared a link to Pete Walker's website with me, and I found it really helpful. So I'm passing it on to you now, too, in case it is for you, too.
http://pete-walker.com/fAQsComplexPTSD.html

Welcome, Kenyatta.

Thanks.

Have had it for many years now. Also not a soldier, but an aidworker just outside Kapstadt. They got me good and killed the driver of my vehicle.

Sorry you have had trauma too. Many things can cause ptsd and there are a few different types. Mine started from birth and then many layers were added by life. There’s lots of support here if you would like to share more.

Welcome and a big hug for you Kenyatta..... The Pete Walker link that Muji gave you is really good..... a great therapist

If you can manage the cost of trauma therapy or a group that could be really helpful for you

This is a good group of folks on this board.....xo

Kenya, welcome aboard this DS lifeboat. When I first got a seat, I read many posts and replies. Many replies included tools that others found helpful. Some worked for me, some didn't. but it helped me understand that I was part of a group that understood what I was dealing with, which those without PTSD can not. Welcome aboard and comforting hugs.

Thanks all

Hello Kenya. I’m new here too. I was at a bank when it was held hostage. Not fun. Hope this site help you.

Welcome Kenyatta,

Another non-military/combat PTSD survivor here. I actually had the luck of getting it twice kind of. Once when I nearly died while studying abroad, and then again from a verbally and psychologically abusive boss. Now I deal with both traumas, and since men were responsible for both of them, My mind has decided to fear all men outside of my family. I've been living with it for 5-6 years now.

It hasn't gone away, but with the right treatment it can in some cases. There have definitely been months and even a year at a time when my symptoms have been very mild and managable. There is a trick though, the only way the symptoms go away is if you face your fears pretty head on, with a trauma-informed therapist.
My experience, when you're newly diagnosed it hurts, when going through treatment like EMDR it hurts A LOT, but then you get through EMDR and it's pretty okay. I was symptom free after 8 months of EMDR and remained so for 9 months. Then my Ass hole boss re-traumatized me and I pretty much had to start over.

Like all of life, there are a lot of ups and downs, breakthroughs and disappointments. It's no walk in the park, but there definitely is hope. This is a really supportive group too. I could not have made it to where I am today without the support I initially received here.

My favorite coping mechanism when I get overwhelmed is to name all the colors in the room in as much detail as possible. Carrying some nice essential oil in your favorite scent has worked for some of my friends. Grounding and mindfulness techniques in general can be helpful.

Hi,
Welcome!!! I am not a solider and I have PTSD. I have learned to do deep breathing but does not really help me but it helps some people. I have PTSD and Autism so for me a heavy blanket will do at times or a smile room away from people helps me. At times deep breathing works but after things become worst. Hang in there and welcome.