Hello everyone

[Saule]

Hello,

Thanks for having me here. I just stumbled across these forums while Googling the difference between CPTSD and OSDD and thought it would be a good idea to join. It's really great to see a forum dedicated to CPTSD. I've joined another forum before but found it all a bit triggering most of the time so I don't go there very often. Hopefully I can stay around here longer.

I'm at an interesting point in my life at the moment where I have managed to put lots of great things in place to support myself while I heal from the abuse I experienced in my childhood and adolescense. My partner is very understanding and supportive, I've reconnected with a few old friends, I'm going to trauma-sensitive yoga classes and I started seeing a new therapist in Sept who specialises in trauma and various treatment approaches including EMDR. On the flip side I withdrew from my university degree last year and I don't have a job (and don't feel able to get one at this stage). I'm very lucky to have my partner financially supporting me, but I'm plagued by guilt over my inability to do all the things a 'normal' adult does.

It's strange feeling like I've put all these positive things in place in my life, but at the same time feeling like I'm going nowhere.

I also like to knit and crochet, an activity I find very relaxing and rewarding.

I guess that's me for now. I look forward to getting involved more and hearing others' stories. 

[Three Roses]

Hello, nice to meet you Saule!

I was diagnosed with ptsd about 2-1/2 years ago and after doing some research came to realize it's more likely CPTSD. I've read Pete Walker's book on CPTSD and am listening to Van Der Kolk's "The Body Keeps The Score". I'm still not sure about getting a new therapist tho, as we moved away.

I love music, dogs and other animals.

This wasn't a choice we made, we didn't inherit it - it was given to us. For the first time in a long time, I'm actually feeling some hope! And I totally understand what you mean, I feel like a burden too at times - but we're not. We're not down for the count, just resting. 

[mourningdove]

Welcome, Saule! 

[Saule]

Thanks Three Roses.

I too was diagnosed with PTSD a few years ago, probably because CPTSD isn't 'official' ... but my psychologist at the time often referred to 'complex trauma' so I think she saw it as CPTSD. My current therapist calls it CPTSD.

I just finished The Body Keeps the Score a few months ago and it really resonated with me. It made me feel really hopeful and understood. My therapist is a big fan herself and uses a lot of the approaches discussed in the book, so I feel like I'm finally getting on the right track treatment-wise.

I really like what you said "we're not down for the count, just resting", that is a good way of putting it. I do tend to swing between this more constructive mindset and the other that is less pragmatic. It is really helpful to think of it that way, though. Thanks

[Saule]

Welcome, Saule! 

Thanks, mourningdove