Intrusive memories/Flashbacks

[Saluki]

It's got to the point where the intrusive memories are completely ruining my life.

I don't know how to make them stop.

And sometimes I blame myself (I should be able to control this and just cut them out: I can't.)

[Kizzie]

Hey Saluki - I'm so sorry you're struggling with intrusive thoughts, they can be difficult to deal with as so many of us know. I don't have a solution per se, but wanted to suggest you Google something like "How do I deal with intrusive thoughts?" as there's lots of information/suggestions online.

Here's one I found that makes sense to me - https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/techniques/managing-intrusive-thoughts. I especially liked that they include a para about self-compassion which can help move you away from blaming yourself. 

I hope this helps 

[Chart]

And sometimes I blame myself (I should be able to control this and just cut them out: I can't.)

Saluki, I identify with this too! (Are we living parallel lives

One thing I do when I "can't" do something is to try and do the reverse. I try to "go into" the thing that is demanding attention. I don't try and feed it energy, I just ask it what it needs, what it wants seen, what it wants to say. I also try and feel my body at the same time.

Other than that, there are a lot of youtube videos on this subject.

Here's hoping for peace and love and calming of the storm within. Sending love and support, chart
 

[Saluki]

Thank you both.

[storyworld]

Hi, Saluki,
I don't have solutions for those that hit during the day, other than to share that I try to redirect my brain by counting, noticing colors I see, etc. But I can share what I've found helpful for bedtime. I use a library app to listen to audio books, and I'm very selective to choose those that are light fiction or something uplifting. Admittedly, sometimes something in the audio book triggers something unexpectedly, but when I find a book that doesn't trigger me, I tend to listen to it over and over. This helps occupy my mind as my brain tends to veer toward disturbing stuff when unoccupied.

[Saluki]

Thanks Storyworld,
I've recently downloaded a library app and since I've been listening to audiobooks instead of podcasts. I definitely agree with the uplifting idea. I realised a lot of stuff I'd usually read is murder mystery sort of stuff! Not a great plan!