Hi All
I'm not entirely clear on the trigger warning protocol. There might be some triggers in this about fear of process.
Wondering if anyone can relate:
My physical body reacts to my trauma in a very way.
As an example, the other day I was going deeper into a memory (which i considered kinda minor in relation to other experiences I've had-some kind of lesson there) and I broke out in some hives-one spot where my arm had been held. And i got a pounding headache that thank-fully went away in an hour or so.
The stuff that goes on mentally and emotionally is a lot as well. But the body stuff sometimes borders on frightening. I'm lucky to be working with a therapist who is, imo, "body-centered" He has taught me the emdr flash technique, has me breath and stretch. So that's helpful. Plus I am a long time massage therapist so I'm aware of many helpful techniques.
But here's the concern. I had a previous therapist for a year or so who was almost only "talk-centered" and left me to deal with all fall-out on my own. He was my first therapist after working on my stuff solo for decades. I am 63yo woman.
When I started to get into more intense emoting, crying and wailing basically, the therapist dropped me because he said he was worried I'd have a heart attack or nervous break-down and should work with someone else. Ha! He was certainly correct that i needed to work with someone else.
But his worries stuck with me. I do have some managed heart issues (angina) and he knew I has an experience when I felt like i was losing my mind (terrifying).
So now when i have an anxiety attack (my panic attacks are mostly under control) or have strong feelings I'm frightened that I'll have a heart attack or lose my mind.
I'm just wondering if anyone else has strong physical reactions and how they might deal.