When PTSD catches up

By Jonathan Arenburg on September 5, 2020 • ( 2 )

When PTSD catches up, how do you handle its wrath?
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Let’s face it, life doesn’t stop doing its thing. It will always come with its ups and downs, and that’s simply part of the deal. Sadly, these rules still apply for those with mental-health conditions. Of course, I can’t speak for everyone, but I can for myself. So here it goes: life’s hard, my friend and recently, I have had my fair share of the harsher side of things.

Checkout Al Levin’s Podcast, The Depression Files

Thing is, right now, I don’t feel that bad – despite a breakup and my son’s accident. I should be wrecked, right? Well, I’m not, but it has not yet sunk in for me. Fear not, it will when PTSD catches up. Then, it will hit me.

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Being witness to so many critical incidents, I have built a disconnect from tragic events, not the good kind, either. In fact, I have no armour whatsoever. No, what I’ve got going on is an unhealthy dose of disassociation and apathy – both symptoms of PTSD but protective in a sense. I liken it to a sort of power-down mode, designed to protect what’s left of me.

Despite resembling a zombie at times because of it, make no mistake, when PTSD catches up with me, I will “feel” once more. It may take a day or maybe even three, but it will hit me and hit me hard.

Symptoms of PTSD

When it hits it will literally take me out of living. For how long, is anyone’s guess; all I know is that I will retreat from the world and live within the safety and quiet of my bedroom. This ever-busy world is just too much, especially when life throws me a few curve balls. It essentially creates the perfect mental illness storm.

Read Nightmare’s aftermath

If this sounds like you, don’t despair. This need you feel to seclude yourself will pass. When PTSD catches up with you, it will be hell, but hang on – you WILL get through it… Stay strong.

Checkout the book I helped to write:

Lemonade Stand: Vol. III

Created by Josh Rivedal and Kathleen Myre, Lemonade Stand: Vol. III is a compilation of 20 stories from those who have served in the emergency services and the military. In it, the authors talk about their battles with PTSD, a debilitating and for many, a life-long mental illness. So, if you are from the military or emergency services, perhaps this book can help you combat the feelings of isolation and fear that frequently come with post-traumatic stress disorder. Sometimes, just knowing that there are others out there, just like you, can provide you with the strength and courage to speak up and/or get the help you need. The intention of this book is to help with that…. You’re not alone.

Also, Lemonade Stand: Vol III was written to help combat the stigma that often accompanies mental illness – best of all, it attempts to give all who served their countries and communities a voice… Which is amazing!