Anniversaries still suck for me 20-plus years later. I try to plan special tasks or activities the day before and after, get my mind off that awful "anticipation" and try to boost up after the day itself. Big support.

I'm so sorry for the loss of your Dad. I can't imagine what you both went through. I can only say that it is a beautiful thing that yous loved each other so much. And you are are a wonderful daughter to remember him on this anniversary. He would be very proud of you to know that he still lives on in the memories you have of him still to this day. Thank you for sharing about your Dad and go easy on youself today. God Bless you. johnnyboy

Time has no meaning in the healing process. ~Algonquin proverb

I have anniversaries from half a century ago that still have the power to destabilize me to the extent that I lean extra heavy on my therapy support network to get me through them. It helps allot just to know I am not alone with them, nor just being a wimp because of ^it^.

Healing takes what it takes. Gentle validation while you ride it out, Nienna. You are not alone.

Hope healing happens here.

Hugs...I am so sorry

Thank you everyone. I try to keep myself busy on these anniversary days, but often I still have to take time to cry about it. I appreciate all of your warm wishes and I give all of you in return my own.

Yes, Nienna, you need to take time to talk and cry about it. Keeping busy can help to an extent, but processing the emotions attached is important to avoiding the repercussions of PTSD flashbacks, nightmares, et al. The longer you deny the emotion, the uglier the PTSD gets.

We are here for you whenever, if ever, you are ready for the talking part.

Both milestones in time and returning to the place of my traumas affect me still decades after I survived them, so know that you're not alone. We're here for you now and every time you pass another marker in your recovery down the line.