HealingWell
Search Close Search
☰

How do I deal with a loved ones trauma??

Support Forums
>
Anxiety & Panic Disorders
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply
❬ ❬ Previous Thread |Next Thread ❭ ❭
Posted 1/1/2016 3:29 PM (GMT 0)
It's been a while since I have been on here...

I have complex ptsd. Recently , I have been doing a bit better. But last night one of my sisters was sexually assaulted... Which also happened to my sister 3 years ago. And that, 3 years ago, is what triggered my c-ptsd symptoms to begin with.

I'm not sure how to deal with this. And I am afraid of being dragged further into my condition. I want to be there for my sister , but am feeling a strong feeling of avoidance.

My family of origin dynamics are pretty screwed up and my mother has always parentified me. And she is heavily involved right now - she called me first after hearing what happened from my sister...

I want to be there for my sister, but I am afraid.

Afraid of being sucked in. Afraid of taking on her feelings. Afraid of saying no. Afraid of doing too much.

Unfortunately, I have to wait till next week to see my therapist, but she has offered a phone consult for tomorrow.
Posted 1/1/2016 4:21 PM (GMT 0)
Hello searching1,

Do you still see a therapist, if not then this would be a good time to schedule an appointment. Your therapist can help you determine the best way to deal with this current crisis, how best to keep yourself safe and minimize re-traumatizing yourself.

I would love to be a victims advocate and my Psychiatrist(s) and Psychotherapist have said I would be good at it but they, as well as my Husband, have said they strongly suggest I do not do this as this could cause a very real possibility of re-traumatizing myself. Your current family crisis has the potential for doing the same to you.
Posted 1/1/2016 4:52 PM (GMT 0)
Searching,

I am so sorry to hear about your sister. My heart breaks for her, you and your family.

Your therapist knows your boundaries and where you are in terms of your recovery best...so well done on getting that phone consult for tomorrow!

Wait until after talking with her before taking any steps for now.

If you feel able to call your sister, and let her know you love her, and will be praying for her, then doing so would be something you can at least offer today...

...if not, then wait and get direction from your therapist, and then proceed with what you both decide tomorrow.

Thoughts and prayers for your family!

S.C.
✚ New Topic ✚ Reply