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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Star Gazer

By Star Gazer,
in Self-Improvement and Personal Well-Being

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Star Gazer

Star Gazer

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I was robbed today at the ATM. I've been crying off an on all day when I think about it. Having experienced traumatic experiences himself while in the Middle East, BF is urging me to go see a psychologist who works with victims tomorrow because he's worried I'll develop PTSD. I'm already seeing my therapist later this week, but I'm unsure if that's one of her specialties. Assuming it's not, should I find another therapist for this?

 

I was also held up at gun-point and locked in a vault when I was 19 and working as a credit union teller. I must have been an angry teenager, because I reacted with anger and irritation at that event and hadn't thought about it for years, whereas with this one I can't stop crying. I feel like it's my fault, like I should have known better.

 

Any advice?

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Ocean-Blue

Ocean-Blue

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I was robbed today at the ATM. I've been crying off an on all day when I think about it. Having experienced traumatic experiences himself while in the Middle East, BF is urging me to go see a psychologist who works with victims tomorrow because he's worried I'll develop PTSD. I'm already seeing my therapist later this week, but I'm unsure if that's one of her specialties. Assuming it's not, should I find another therapist for this?

 

I was also held up at gun-point and locked in a vault when I was 19 and working as a credit union teller. I must have been an angry teenager, because I reacted with anger and irritation at that event and hadn't thought about it for years, whereas with this one I can't stop crying. I feel like it's my fault, like I should have known better.

 

Any advice?

 

You poor thing! I'm very sorry to hear this happened to you.

 

I'm glad you have your therapist to speak to about this. I'm sure he/she will give you some coping strategies...

 

All I can say is that this was NOT your fault. You had no way of knowing something like this would happen.

 

You survived something far worse as a teen...you are obviously a strong person who didn't crumble then, I have faith that you won't this time either.

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underpants

underpants

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That stinks,

 

You know that this is in no way your fault. You feel victimized because you were.

 

What a jerk. I bet the bank has him on camera. They might even have his car on camera if it is in the background.

 

You are physically okay and that is the most important thing.

 

I know you will find that anger and he will realize he robbed the wrong person.

 

Wrong place at the wrong time. It happens. I am glad it was not worse.

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johan

johan

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Hang in there, Star. It really sucks that that happened.

 

I do think it's a good idea to seek counseling, but I also encourage you to try to deal with this using your own internal strength and resources. See how your feelings and sleep patterns change in the coming days, and remember you did not cause it. It's not your fault.

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whichwayisup

whichwayisup

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Star, I am so sorry that you had to go through this today, let alone a second time, years later.

I understand your fears and how upset you are. You aren't ready to open up, don't. Cry when you need to, be angry as well.

 

Let your therapist help you through this, but on YOUR terms and time frame. Don't let anyone push you into talking until you feel ready.

 

Hugs, and feel free to PM me.

 

Afew months after my father died someone tried to break into our house, I was alone. It was a terrifying experience for me and gave me tons of fears. That's a story for another day, but I just wanted to let you know I can identify with your fears.

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whichwayisup

whichwayisup

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BF is urging me to go see a psychologist who works with victims tomorrow because he's worried I'll develop PTSD. I'm already seeing my therapist later this week, but I'm unsure if that's one of her specialties. Assuming it's not, should I find another therapist for this?

 

I think whatever you are comfortable with, do. Talk to your therapist, let her know what happened. I'm sure she will be able to see the signs if you need a specialized therapist to help you cope better. Ask her to refer you to someone if this isn't one of her specialities.

 

Please don't blame yourself. None of this is your fault SG!

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Star Gazer

Star Gazer

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I'm crying and upset, but more than anything I am angry, but angry that I am now afraid. I feel physically unsafe, and I've never felt that way before. I'm afraid of my surroundings, afraid of places that were once safe in my eyes, and afraid of strangers.

 

I am literally finding this to be true already, and it hasn't even been 10 hours since it happened. I just took out the trash, and my downstairs neighbor (she's new, just met her moments ago) was walking her little unleashed Jack Russell terrier, and when she came around the corner I literally screamed.

 

I spoke with my therapist, she's going to see me tomorrow. I also received a call from victims assistance from the County regarding reimbursement for what was stolen. I know there's help out there, and I am willing to take it. I guess I'm just hoping it works, and FAST.

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allina

allina

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I'm so sorry SG *hugs* I can't believe that happened to you.

 

I think you will be ok. I got held up at gun point at 18 when I was working retail and though it shook me up for a couple days I was okay. I don't think you'll develop PTSD over this. I don't want to be dismissive because it is a scary experience but I'm sure you'll be fine.

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Pyro

Pyro

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I'm so sorry for what happened SG. I am just glad that you made it out alive.

 

Definitely talk to your current therapist about this and also try to use your own internal strengths to overcome this. You are a lawyer so I know that you have it in you.

 

This may even be a good chance to consider taking some self defense classes.

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CaliGuy

CaliGuy

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I was robbed today at the ATM. I've been crying off an on all day when I think about it. Having experienced traumatic experiences himself while in the Middle East, BF is urging me to go see a psychologist who works with victims tomorrow because he's worried I'll develop PTSD. I'm already seeing my therapist later this week, but I'm unsure if that's one of her specialties. Assuming it's not, should I find another therapist for this?

 

I was also held up at gun-point and locked in a vault when I was 19 and working as a credit union teller. I must have been an angry teenager, because I reacted with anger and irritation at that event and hadn't thought about it for years, whereas with this one I can't stop crying. I feel like it's my fault, like I should have known better.

 

Any advice?

 

 

SG, I don't have any advice for you, but just wanted to pass on well wishes for you. This sucks. Really sucks. And yeah, bad people suck even worse.

 

Follow the BF's advice and yes, talk to a Counselor. The one you are going to see, if she can't help you, she can point you in the right direction.

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tanbark813

tanbark813

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Sorry to hear about that, SG. I don't really have any advice but when I was in high school I was mugged by two guys while delivering pizza. My manager just laughed at me when I got back to the store. :D

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