Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a term for certain psychological consequences of exposure to, or confrontation with, stressful experiences that the person experiences as h...
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emotional shut down?
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I have been experiencing PTSD symptoms daily for about 2 months. ( I was diagnosed with this years ago.) Yet in the last couple of weeks I feel fine. I am completely emotionally on shut down. Things that would normally trigger a panic attack, don't. In fact I have found that I don't have a reaction at all. I don't feel sad, happy or mad.
I do feel some anxiety about this because I feel like it will come back. Knowing all the time that this all could come crashing down again worries me. Does anyone else with PTSD go through this? Your comments a greatly appreciated! THANK YOU! Posted on 05/14/08, 02:05 pm |
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I was diagnosed with PTSD in December of 2007. Emotional shutdown at this point would be a good thing for me. I am also experiencing the physical pain, especially in the veins in my hands. I am told by doctors and cardiologists that this is normal because the outflow of my heart is so bad. Loud noises, guns, men's raised voices trigger this along with the panic/anxiety I have. I am sorry I couldn't be more helpful. There are MANY wonderful discussion boards on DS. Have you looked into any of those and posted the same question? 
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I was diagnosed with PTSD when the symptoms were "full-on" in 2001 (it was delayed onset of 11 years). Most of the symptoms are now settled but one "biggie" for me is the emotional numbing I live with even now - just as you describe.
I saw my doctor yesterday and discussed this very topic! - it wasn't the reason for my visit but I lack the more "positive" emotions. One thing that I have acquired is a very real sense of empathy. I didn;t used to be this way and now I empathise and care about all manner of people and things that life serves up to us e.g. the present disasters in China, Myanmar, Middle East etc. So, I do not think you are alone 4myself2day :-( I hope your symptoms settle soon and you regain your former wellness. JeFurry
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I shut down to all outside things as there comes a time when I am at emotional overload. Usually there are signs not sleeping, anxiety, headaches and others to name a few. Usually without me realizing it I am processing those bad memories. The thing is that you recognized there is something wrong and maybe its time to revisit some of your coping skills that help you relax. Meditation, writing, massage, diaphramatic breathing etc. I hope this has been helpful take care and I will be watching this post.
Grant
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Yup, as I've mentioned in my other posts, emotional shutdown is something that is happening with more and more of my life. I just came to recognize that I have done it with my living arrangements. The fact that I am using some of my cousin's furniture, which normally would not be ok with me, suits me just fine because I just don't care. All I do care about is that I am away from my H/stbx and that I can have quiet time. I am not happy about being shutdown, but I guess it's better than the alternative.
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TryingToCope7 mentioned something that relates to symptomatic relief of anxiety.
It may be early days for you 4myself2day but I did a 10day residential Vipassana Meditation course and I can honestly say it changed my life. I have not had a single anxiety attack (nor a single Benzo) since I did the course several months ago. I have heard Yoga is therapuetic too. On PTSD symptoms I found CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) better (more effective) than any medication. If anyone has an answer to freedom from emotional numbing please let me know - that is my No.1 problem symptom - I'm a good guy but sometimes I feel like an Automonon :-(
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I have had this happen. Even thought I was getting over it, but... not even. Just like you said, I was just shutting down for a while. I think our brains know when we need a break. maybe ???
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Alas, my psychiatrist counselled me to not expect the emaotional numbing ("range of effect") to return. Interestingly I have enormously increased my capacity for empathy and compassion. I wish I understood why :-(
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It's like I was a zombie for years. dead inside, but now I'm starting to experience life again. all I had in one point in my life was the usual of nightmares and flashbacks. now I'm starting to live again, and I never thought I'd ever be able to say that again.
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I have both PTSD and bipolar. Due to being on abilify for bipolar I notice a leveling and flattening of my emotions. Not so much a roller coaster. Some numbing occurs. PTSD though is always in the background like a haze. It numbs my ability to life a full creative life and has dulled my capacity to paint and write poetry as usual. Having DS groups really helps.I wish you well.
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You are all so amazing! Thank you so much for taking the time to respond to my comment.
I feel better knowing I am not alone. I wish you all the best in your journeys though recovering and/or with PTSD! BIG HUGS TO YOU ALL!!!
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