Out of the Storm

Symptoms => Symptoms - Other => Topic started by: Stussy7 on February 10, 2026, 05:17:31 AM

Title: Freeze response after nightmares
Post by: Stussy7 on February 10, 2026, 05:17:31 AM
As you all know, CPTSD causes constant nightmares.
After a night of horrific nightmares last night, I have gone into freeze mode and have totally shut down.
My husband asked if I wanted to talk about the nightmares, but I said no.

So I was wondering...is it better to openly talk about the nightmares, or is it better to just distract yourself and try and forget?
Maybe if I talk about it next time, I might not go into shut down mode?
Title: Re: Freeze response after nightmares
Post by: NarcKiddo on February 10, 2026, 11:36:54 AM
I don't think there is one right answer. I also think the answer varies depending on how you are feeling at the time. I will say that my experience generally is that stuffing things down and trying to forget is not generally helpful in the long term. It can, however, be necessary in the moment.

Sorry this is not very helpful. I do think it is probably worth talking about it at some point.