numbness aspect of PTSD

[rainbow747]

I saw a TV program the other day on the Military Channel, and it was about three PTSD veterans who did some work
with horses and felt better.  Well, one of the vets described their feelings as numb.  I am a depressed and anxious
person, those are my "official" problems, and I found the numbness idea a very good description of how my depression
feels.  I am numb to the world, don't care a thing about it sometimes, just want to stay home.  All the things I found fun, or
or hopeful or interesting, they're no good for me anymore. Maybe a few days out of a month I'll feel almost normal, the
rest is a struggle.  I got my depression and anxiety from a bad car accident, so I'm in pain a lot, lost the house and had
to downsize, and recently I've been physically sick, and, well, the usual stressors that follow me around.

I am a 60 yr old female, I've had chronic severe depression for about ten years, take SSRIs for it.  I don't know if they
help me or not.  I also take tranquilizers for anxiety.  Sometimes they don't work either.  I thought I would post
here even tho I am not a PTSD person, in hopes of finding support, or perhaps if someone reads this, they'll know
what I'm talking about, losing interest and being numb.

I also don't know how to make this post wrap around, so I keep having to hit return at the end of the line.
Rainbow

[29sillygirl]

Hi,
Believe the numbness is mind's defense to overwhelming events.  What you describe in your life is a series of seriously unpleasant events.  Glad you have whatever help the antidepressants/antianxiety meds give. Alto' therapy in the real world is usually helpful to a point, I believe the benefits of 'talking' to supportive online friends is very literally a lifesaving thing to do. 

I am new to this forum.  Hope you will keep posting.  The holidays are here.  You know the drill.  The insanity of holidays amps up feelings of isolation, etc.  At least it does for me.  I'd love to nap my way thru' them. Have a neighborhood cat with me just now who agrees .

Won't load you with my story ...yet.  Believe me when I say I feel for you and understand.   Best.....

[Nigel H]

Rainbow - sorry to hear about your accident and the affects it has had.

I was wondering if you were watching that channel as ex-military yourself?

If so, then maybe you could check out The Warrior Programme [link below] - which is a charity helping ex service people. I know some people involved with it and they enable the participants to overcome their PTSD (from active war service).

www.warriorprogramme.org.uk/Programme

I too had an accident (2007) which left me with about 30% range of movement in my right arm (I am right handed) and was left with PTSD, among many other symptoms.  I have actually had this dealt with and so can reassure you that it is totally possible to have your PTSD and related depression handled.

Nig

[Grandma]

Hi rainbow and welcome to Anxiety Zone.

I am 62 and another member, popeye, is 63.  As far as I know, we are the oldest members.  It's good to have another senior citizen aboard!

I can relate to everything you say and look forward to getting to know you.