It's over now. Why am I still reacting this way?
You know the danger has passed. Yet a sudden sound causes intense tension. Images you do not want to think about return. At night, falling asleep is difficult although you feel tired.
Someone tells you, “Stop going back to it.” You want to stop too. But the memories appear even while you are doing something else.
After a life-threatening experience, violence or a serious accident, sleep difficulties, irritability and constant vigilance can occur. Sometimes you avoid a place that reminds you of the event. Concentrating is hard. You may also feel numb instead of experiencing the emotions you expected.
These reactions do not automatically mean PTSD. For many people, they gradually lessen. If they persist and interfere with life, however, it is worth discussing them with a specialist.
Notice what has changed since that experience. Are you giving up things that matter to you? Do you spend a lot of time checking whether you are safe? Do you avoid people whose company you used to enjoy?
This is not about judging whether your reaction is “too strong”. It is about how you are now and what you need.
You do not have to wait months if symptoms are very distressing. You can seek help sooner, especially if sleeping, working or managing everyday matters is difficult.
At a consultation, you do not have to describe the event in detail straight away. We can start with what is happening now. Also say if a question is too difficult at the moment.
I will not try to persuade you to forget. We will look at what you are living with now and agree on appropriate support. You do not have to tell your entire story in detail to begin seeking help.
Hanna Swierczewska
Psychologist, psychotraumatologist, psycho-oncologist
If you would like to talk about your situation, you are welcome to book an online consultation.
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