I am new here and I hope this appropriate to share...

I have been experiencing are flashbacks.

I've had flashbacks from my former profession, paramedic – I have flashbacks about experiences with patients and then myself being stabbed, shot at, etc. But, I've had those under control for a long time.

These involve family members and being forced to do things I don't want to do and don't want to remember. They aren't specific, but they feel real.

I wonder if this is part of dealing with this crap?

When do you start drinking?

God,I wish Romney had never run for president...

I started the drinking too early. I'm sorry about your flashbacks. I have them too.

Isn't it crazy how leaving the cult unearths so much..stuff?
I finally made an appointment to see a counselor.
Some of the issues that one faces as an exmo need to be handled with professional help

Be very gentle with yourself
Take time to "settle" and meditate.
Do things you love, be with people you love.
One day at a time, my friend.
One day at a time.
We will be here to help you make it past the rapids.
Lean on us, and rest a while :)

Drinking will make the flashbacks worse in addition to the other harm it can cause. Are you out on disability? Do you have access to counseling? There are therapists who work specifically with cops, firefighters, and paramedics.

The flashbacks seem real because the "time" of the event is not encoded--your brain is not distinguishing them as past and reacts as if they are occurring in the present, with all the accompanying physical reactions. Alcohol makes it harder for your brain to make that distinction and to resist the emotional flooding you are experiencing.

If you can do something as simple as tell yourself "This happened then, it's not happening now" and do something (safe) to be physically in the present, it may help.

Symptoms can be caused by increases in over all stress, not just triggers specifically related to traumatic events. So, yes, dealing with other stressful events can trigger unrelated trauma as well. Adrenaline seems to be a key.

Medication can sometimes be very helpful. I think given the intensity of what you are experiencing, talking to a doctor would be important. Medication can work for you and not have the problems drinking can bring.

Also, if you are a military veteran, the VA can help you. You would want to contact your nearest VA clinic or county Veterans Service Office.

You may also get some help from The PTSD Workbook by Mary Beth Williams.

http://www.amazon.com/The-PTSD-Workbook-Techniques-Overcoming/dp/1572242825/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1347237939&sr=8-1&keywords=the+ptsd+workbook+mary+beth+williams



Edited 1 time(s). Last edit at 09/09/2012 08:46PM by robertb.

I have an appt with a psychiatrist on Tue...

Until then, no booze - one day at a time

Thanks a lot everybody...



Edited 2 time(s). Last edit at 09/09/2012 09:29PM by John_Lyle.