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I asked a question earlier and was told that I probably have PTSD and should really discuss this with my psychologist, But I am finding it hard to even bring up anything to do with what happened and the rape, to anyone face to face. I was told by the person before that to make the dreams stop I would have to talk about it, but I don't see that happening. While I want them to stop, I am worried that bringing up the rape will make me relapse. I have only been clean from drugs for a year or so. Is there another way I can get rid of the dreams, being on edge all the time, and pushing everyone away from me without talking to someone about it? Are there any other solutions then just talking about it? Also why is this all occurring now? The rape was about 3 years ago. I didn't use to have dreams and all the rest. Surprisingly it seems that the drugs made it easier to deal with.

Submitted: 364 days and 7 hours ago.
Category: Mental Health
Value: $9
Status: CLOSED
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Accepted Answer

Drugs can numb the feelings associated with trauma, thus, in the short-term, making it easier to deal with. Now that you're clean, the feelings that the drugs were anesthetizing are coming up for what sounds like the first time. This happens for lots of people after experiencing a rape- the symptoms don't start until sometime later, catching the person off guard. While this is certainly unpleasant and even scary at times, it is normal.

 

There may come a time that you want or need to talk about your rape but that doesn't need to be now. Sometimes it helps to work on calming your anxiety (and the nightmares that come from it) first. There are many ways to do this- sometimes people use a medication to help relieve anxiety and/or promote sleep. For people who prefer not to use medication, learning things like deep breathing exercises, yoga, meditation, and/or progressive muscle relaxation can help manage anxiety and relax your body. Once you learn how to cope with the anxiety that comes up for you, it might be easier to think about going to sleep and, someday, talking about your trauma, as you will likely feel more able to manage whatever feelings could come up.

 

I hope this is helpful.

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Expert: Lively
Pos. Feedback: 100.0 %
Accepts: 
Answered: 11/24/2008

Psychologist

Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, 10 years experience working with individuals, couples, & families

364 days and 4 hours ago.

Reply

Thanks, I will definitely give that a try, much better than talking ya know. Thanks

Posted by Lively 363 days and 17 hours ago.

Answer

Good luck!

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