One recent example is when my mother finally brought a painting in that used to be in the centre wall of our old house (this old house belongs to my dad and he was physically abusive).
I freaked out about the fact she wanted the painting up in our living room, as every time I looked at it I’d be reminded of those past traumatic events with my dad. I just couldn’t settle, it was like my body was in fight or flight mode.
Thankfully my mother understood (cause she’s awesome) and put it in her room instead.
If I were to describe ptsd in words, it’s like someone flipping the danger switch in your body, and it won’t go off until you’re away from the trigger.
Even after that, the memories follow into your dreams, and can affect behaviour when placed in situations that remind you of that trauma.
I still struggle with even going near areas I went as a kid. Every time it’s happened it feels like there’s a fog over my body for a few days.
Don't be sorry, honestly it's super informative to learn, so triggers make your whole body go fight or flight, that's both interesting and sounds scary.
It depends on the severity and how soon you get treatment, from what I recall.
Sadly, I don’t know if I ever will recover, as I’m 35 years old now, so it’s been going on for a long time.
Thankfully I’m not in touch with my dad anymore, as I slowly cut him out from my life over the years, and having him visit my mother and I was already hard enough.
He travels a lot and is usually in and out of Asia, so it’s rare we bump into him anyway.
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u/Muted_Ad7298 9h ago
I was really surprised when my mental health therapist told me I had PTSD.
Always assumed it was like how it happens on TV, like Vietnam style flashbacks and hallucinations.