Unexplained fear

I was involved in an attack 9 months ago that left my friend dead, and the attacker tried to kill me as well. I used to LOVE having alone time at home especially at night, but since the attack every little noise I hear makes me jump. When the cats move around, a car drives by, plane over head, heater turning on, you name it. I freak out. My heart rate goes up, cant concentrate on anything, and am gripped with terror. I don't know what I am afraid of though is the problem. I KNOW if someone broke in, I would hear it the second they opened the door. I know it is not a ghost or anything from a horror movie. The attack happened in broad day light outside, but its only at night in my home that I am afraid of someone coming in and trying to hurt me again. The logical side of my brain tells me that this is just a reaction, a ripple from the attack, but I cannot talk myself out of my paranoid/anxious state. Is this normal? Is anyone else irrationally afraid of things they used to love/things they used to do after something really crappy happened? I feel weird talking to my live in boyfriend/family/friends about this, even thought i know they would be supportive. Also, does anyone else feel like their friends/family are tired of hearing about this stuff?

Thank you for responding Larry, it really does help immensely. It hasn't occurred that my loved ones may just be afraid of the story. Thanks again,
Sophie

sc5846,

I too am sorry to hear your story. You are surely still in grief and shock from your traumatic experience, and are naturally going to have these effects, which as Lgm and Hibee mentioned should be evalutated as for PTSD.

Are you currently seeing someone to help you to work through this process? No one can be expected to go through this alone without help.

I would recommend seeking help in the form of a therapist...or if this is not a possibility for you...a group for survivors of violent acts/trauma.

In both cases, you will be able to talk about your situation freely, and gain tools to help you to overcome your fears, and feel safe in your home again.

If you need some help with researching survivor groups on-line, let me know, and I will do my best to help you with that.

Keep posting here as well if you find it helpful. We care and are here to listen anytime.

Healing thoughts,

Scaredy Cat

Hi

I am pleased you have found the advice helpful you are right speaking about your issues to a trained therapist will help you a lot.

The group idea is a good one as you will be with others who will be able to relate and help support each other. I have done group CBT and found it very helpful and still keep in touch with a few who were in the group.

Stay with us and keep posting.

hibee