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 I have tried therapy many different times through the years. I even went to group therapy for a while. My most recent T is the one who diagnosed Cptsd. You could have knocked me over with a feather when she gave me that diagnosis. I was so happy to finally have a "name" for what I had. I was in a very bad way when I first began seeing this T. She was helpful, but I wasn't able to take in all she was saying to me. Even going to therapy stressed me out.

After about 6 months, I started EMDR with her. I had 10 treatments which left me thoroughly exhausted for a few days after each treatment. I believe the EMDR re-traumatized me somewhat. I can't honestly say it helped much. After 2 yrs, I stopped seeing T as I didn't think it was helping me. I am a convincing people-pleaser & felt that I was more concerned with making her happy with the progression of my treatment than I was. The complexity of Cptsd can make you unsure if T is actually helping you or not. I don't miss it. I found it hard to stay on track with her sometimes. I don't believe I was really ready for therapy at that time.
I read books she recommended, did my own research online & that's where I am today. But, I will go back if I feel it is necessary. No hard, fast rules here.

Marie, I think only you have the answer to whether to go it alone or not. You can always try it again & see what happens. 8 yrs is a long time, & you may do quite well with a T now. I understand being suspicious of medical help, also. I worked for a private physician for 30 yrs & referred hundreds of people to therapists. Some continued in therapy for many, many years with not much, if any, resolution to their problems. Imo, medication did more for the patients than therapy.

Best wishes in whatever you decide to do. Sending  warm wishes your way. Thank you for posting

Hello all. I was diagnosed with Cptsd in 2012, although I've had it since the late 70's. Back then I was diagnosed with Panic Disorder & Depression. This forum is wonderful & you are all helping me so much. Thank you. This is my second post and I am somewhat embarrassed to share this info, but feel many of you may understand. I find that when I go out in public, doesn't really matter where, I find myself starting conversations with fellow shoppers, check out clerks, hair stylists, etc, btw, these are complete strangers,  where I say what I think are funny remarks & proceed like I am a comedian. I find myself overtalking. Most people respond okay, but I feel like a fool after I do this because my humor is sophomoric & juvenile. I am 64 years old, but I oftentimes behave like a young teenager. I can't seem to control myself.

I feel compelled to behave like this. I have not matured properly. I get nervous around people and just start talking. I don't know how to just talk normally. I was my FOO's jokster. I think it was the only way I could get any attention in my depressing home.

Does anyone else have this problem? I am aware that I do this so I don't do it as much as I used to. I catch myself & try to stay quiet, but it is difficult. I can only go out sporadically when I am having a fairly good day. This overtalking is ridiculous & embarrassing. Any help would be very appreciated. Thank you for listening & being there.

My older sister & I are only surviving members of FOO. I developed CPTSD in my early 20's as did another sister who is now deceased. I am now 64 yrs. old. This sister & I have a long history of off & on communication.

She is like my narc F, but defenies or minimizes his abusive behavior of SA of me & my deceased sister. She states he didn't abuse her.  She is now very ill & we have re-engaged after no contact for several years.

I get very anxious during & after our conversations as she is so much like FOO in negativity & drama. I basically don't like her at all. Contact with her drains me & I sink into depression & darkness. I am considering going NC permanently, but because she is so ill, I don't know if that would be too cruel.

I am currently very ill from CPTSD. I am weak, fragile & lonely. I am widowed & barely able to endure any social interaction. I cannot get close to anyone in an authentic way.

I'm new here. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank you for listening.