Support
Support

PTSD and trauma

A space for discussing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), domestic abuse, sexual abuse and other trauma. Please note some content may be distressing.

Start a conversation

FAQ

Find answers to some of the more frequently asked questions on the Forums.

View the FAQ

Forums guidelines

Our guidelines keep the Forums a safe place for people to share and learn information.

View the guidelines
Categories
Start a conversation

Pinned discussions

Sophie_M If you need to talk about Bondi Beach - Our community is here
  • replies: 8

Hi everyone, After the heartbreaking events at Bondi Beach on Sunday night, we know many people in our community may be feeling shaken, distressed, or unsure how to make sense of what has happened. Religious and political violence has no place is Aus... View more

Hi everyone, After the heartbreaking events at Bondi Beach on Sunday night, we know many people in our community may be feeling shaken, distressed, or unsure how to make sense of what has happened. Religious and political violence has no place is Australia and we extend our heartfelt condolences to the individuals and families affected by this tragedy. We wanted to create a space where you can share whatever you’re feeling - whether that’s fear, shock, grief, or anything else that has come up for you. If you need support from others in the community, please feel welcome to post here. Violence and acts of terror can bring feelings of shock, grief, profound sadness, anger and fear. It’s normal to experience these emotions while trying to make sense of distressing events. It may take time for these feelings to ease, but it’s never too early to seek support if you are feeling distressed. Beyond Blue is here for you anytime, by phone on 1300 224 636 or via webchat: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/talk-to-a-counsellor You can also support those around you by being available to them and listening. Thank you for being such an important part of this community, and for the kindness, honesty, and wisdom you continue to share with each other. We remind the community that Beyond Blue is here for all people in Australia, no matter what you believe, how you live or who you worship. Kind regards Sophie M

A_Tech PTSD for Medical and First Responders
  • replies: 276

Hi, Well obviously this my situation. I was hoping to find others here that might have a similar background to chat with, it can be so hard to talk about this stuff with non-med people (and I mean no disrespect, it's just often graffic or upsetting t... View more

Hi, Well obviously this my situation. I was hoping to find others here that might have a similar background to chat with, it can be so hard to talk about this stuff with non-med people (and I mean no disrespect, it's just often graffic or upsetting to others). Im a 40 year old female that has spent the last 10years in the State Trauma Hospital as an Anaesthetic Technician. My PTSD was brought about after years of exposure to shocking traumas, deaths, and no support from management. I would love to hear from anyone that has a similar story, or just wants to chat. Cheers

All discussions

Start a conversation

Guest_45929587 Trauma bond relationship
  • replies: 2

I finished a 4 year relationship about 6 weeks ago . It started 2 years after my marriage of 27 years ended . I adored her , but I was unfaithful a couple of times in the first year of being together even though I adored her . I could not explain why... View more

I finished a 4 year relationship about 6 weeks ago . It started 2 years after my marriage of 27 years ended . I adored her , but I was unfaithful a couple of times in the first year of being together even though I adored her . I could not explain why I did that but I did and maybe ufcwas because I was vulnerable , flattered with new attention and lacking in boundaries. I was found out by my girlfriend and she was devastated- so was I . I sorted last 3 years taking full responsibility, saw psychiatrist, psychologist, listened , did everything I could - really tried to understand her side - she was incredibly strong to stay , but a toxic cycle of recurrent abuse , and push pull started at some stage - I never wavered and spent 3 years absorbing and losing myself . We ended up adoring eachother but I do believe she is either an extremely avoidant infidelity traumatised person, or someone with covert narcissistic personality- but essentially we I believe are in a classic trauma bonded relationship. I culminated in too much abuse and dismissive disrespecting behaviour at Xmas and I finally believed that while I feel I love we couldn’t remain together . It wasn’t until I ended it that she said I’m sorry for the first time ever , that “ I am loved “ first time ever and could we try couples therapy first time ever , after refusing my requests for uh multiple times I desperately want her back although everyone tells me it’s bad for me and it’s not love , and that the same patterns will recur I am devastated and want to contact her

Guest_78578392 Ex crim ex addict
  • replies: 2

So alot of my depression and anxiety comes from my childhood 

So alot of my depression and anxiety comes from my childhood 

Headintheclouds Emotional Abuse
  • replies: 9

Hi, I’m not sure this is the correct location to add this discussion. I am struggling at the moment trying to workout if I have been/am being emotionally abused by my partner. I have been with my partner for 2.5 years, throughout the relationship the... View more

Hi, I’m not sure this is the correct location to add this discussion. I am struggling at the moment trying to workout if I have been/am being emotionally abused by my partner. I have been with my partner for 2.5 years, throughout the relationship there has been many ups and downs. Pulling me in, pushing me away, I love you, I don’t know if I love you, you make me feel like a real person, this relationship is making me unhappy, let’s have a baby, let’s never speak of having a baby again, let’s move in together, let’s break up. Last year after being together for 1.5 years and him withdrawing, the first of the I don’t know if I love you, ignoring me, refusing to look as me etc I found drugs in a bag he was taking to and from work. After this, he withdrew further and it felt like he punished me for finding out his secret. He eventually admitted that he was/is a drug addict 8 years ago and has started using again casually. I know that it wasn’t casually because we would be at dinner and he would almost fall asleep while eating, almost falling asleep while driving, 1 night he did fall as asleep, with his kids in the car. A couple of months after, he had an epiphany that he really does love me and the relationship was the best it ever had been for a few months. 3 weeks ago, a switch flicked in him again and he withdrew completely. He’s constantly angry, he ignores me as though I don’t exist. More of I don’t know if I love you and I don’t know why I’m treating you like this. He is treating me like he suddenly hates me. Saturday night I was comforting him because he was down and that night was the nicest he’s been to me in weeks. He was rubbing my back and then tried to lead to sex and I pushed him away because I didn’t want it. He stopped after I pushed him away the second time and I eventually woke up to him behind me pushing into my back. I tried to ignore him but he continued. I knew if I didn’t let him do what he wanted, he’d treat me even worse. When it was over, he didn’t touch me or say a word to me and he hasn’t since. I am at a point now where I do not know if I am being abused. I cannot sleep properly, I’m forcing myself to eat and I’m genuinely questioning myself. I feel like I am in slow motion most days, and I am filled with anxiety to the point I am about to be physically sick. He tells me that he is depressed and I don’t doubt that, however, the constant turmoil makes me wonder if there is something more than depression. Not that anything would justify his behaviour to me right now anyway. It feels as though the silent treatment is like he is controlling me and keeping me in a constant state of confusion and disarray. I feel humiliated that I gave him another chance and here I am again. It’s a pattern now.

honey-gallop Trying to end long-term therapy (and freaking out)
  • replies: 7

I'm turning 40 this year and have been seeing my psychologist, R, for around 10 years, starting shortly after a BPD diagnosis. When I began therapy, I was often in crisis, struggling with self-harm and substance use, and had several hospitalisations.... View more

I'm turning 40 this year and have been seeing my psychologist, R, for around 10 years, starting shortly after a BPD diagnosis. When I began therapy, I was often in crisis, struggling with self-harm and substance use, and had several hospitalisations. Over time I made significant progress: my last hospitalisation was 5 years ago, I'm now married, have moved cities, and work in a senior role. A turning point was being diagnosed with ADHD at 35 and starting treatment, which helped me understand myself in a new way. This possibility hadn’t been raised by R, who questioned the diagnosis. Not long after, my psychiatrist revised my diagnosis from BPD to CPTSD. I'm stable now, but some long-standing patterns haven’t shifted. I'm hypervigilant in all relationships, constantly monitoring myself and others, and struggle to trust that situations - or my own reactions - are "ok" without reassurance. I take on too much responsibility for other people's feelings, and when I feel hurt or angry, I tend to turn it inward as guilt or shame. These issues have persisted over the last few years, no matter how much R and I talked about them. After a lot of reflection, I emailed R to say our next session would be my last. I explained that I wanted to try EMDR, which my psychiatrist had recommended a year earlier, and that I thought letting her know in advance would allow us to talk it through properly. I expressed gratitude for the help she’d given me. During the session, I explained why I'd decided to end therapy. R suggested that emailing ahead reflected avoidance of emotional situations, implied I’d tried to make the ending "neat and tidy" for myself, and asked why I hadn't raised my concerns about progress earlier. She also suggested I hadn't considered her emotional response. I said that it didn’t occur to me to suggest another approach because I saw that as the clinician's role, and that blurred boundaries are really distressing for me as I rely on them to act "correctly". I felt intense guilt, like I'd done something very wrong. R then described feeling like "my mum" and emphasised the emotional significance of our relationship. By the end, I was distraught and apologising repeatedly. She reframed the situation as neither right nor wrong and encouraged me to keep on for a few more sessions "to honour our therapy". I left feeling devastated. I feel like R used my weaknesses against me, but I feel so unsure. I don't want to go back, but I feel pressured to return. Thoughts?

Picture Thankful for psychologist
  • replies: 2

Hi all Just reflecting on how grateful I am to have found a good psychologist. She has helped me through the most difficult period of my life. She is going on maternity leave now so I will need to change to her colleague but she helped me feel stable... View more

Hi all Just reflecting on how grateful I am to have found a good psychologist. She has helped me through the most difficult period of my life. She is going on maternity leave now so I will need to change to her colleague but she helped me feel stable and hopeful again. I thought I would share this positive experience.

Molly2026 Blackouts
  • replies: 2

Ive had quite a traumatic childhood and have blacked years out that I can not remember. What can I do do to try and remember?

Ive had quite a traumatic childhood and have blacked years out that I can not remember. What can I do do to try and remember?

Eagle Ray Troubled by recent social change
  • replies: 10

TW - Possibly Trauma Activating Content I’m visiting my home city of Perth. I went to get some dinner in the central city early this evening and realised a group of police officers were going past me in body armour, some carrying hi tech automatic ri... View more

TW - Possibly Trauma Activating Content I’m visiting my home city of Perth. I went to get some dinner in the central city early this evening and realised a group of police officers were going past me in body armour, some carrying hi tech automatic rifles. I have never seen that before in this city. It was like something out of a movie and seemed unreal. I’ve been reading online this evening of others seeing the same thing across Perth in recent weeks, including at markets in the park by the beach near where I grew up and the shopping centre we used to go to. Basically a heavily armed presence has become normalised since the awful event at Bondi. Then when I arrived here on Monday I got off the train and I was redirected by police after an improvised explosive device was thrown into a crowd of people but fortunately didn’t detonate. I am seeing things I never expected to see. The reason it’s especially affecting me is I’m dealing with complex ptsd and already processing flashbacks and really disturbing material coming up from my past. I’m already trauma activated a lot of the time and so it’s really impacting me. Added to that are feelings of grief about the loss of what now seems a more innocent time. Even my safe places where I would go to escape as a child, such as my favourite ocean spot in Perth, is being patrolled by heavily armed officers. Tomorrow I return to my town where I also feel unsafe and have been subject to social bullying for some time now. I’m dreading going back there but can’t sense anywhere else safe either. I guess my bearings are lost at the moment. What I have to hang onto is a great concert I went to that had such positive energy and lovely friends I caught up with while here. I’m trying to maintain a connection to the good in the world. Is anyone else feeling really lost like this? Has anything helped you find a sense of stability and normality in it all? My internal world is harrowing enough on a daily and nightly basis, but the external world is also feeling threatening in new and strange ways. I guess I just want to feel something safe and familiar.

Picture Hope
  • replies: 7

Hello - after going through a difficult time with your mental health, what gave you hope? Was it a sudden realisation or a feeling that came slowly over time?It is interesting to think that when we are in a mental health crisis we lose sight of hope ... View more

Hello - after going through a difficult time with your mental health, what gave you hope? Was it a sudden realisation or a feeling that came slowly over time?It is interesting to think that when we are in a mental health crisis we lose sight of hope for the future, but getting it back can be a relief and can foster a more positive approach to life. Just some thoughts

Monarch Difficulty trusting medical clinicians
  • replies: 2

Hello good people, I am trying to seek help for what I think may be cptsd. My experience with the public health system has left me feeling like a lost cause. I made a booking with a private psychologist then cancelled the next day. Is this common? My... View more

Hello good people, I am trying to seek help for what I think may be cptsd. My experience with the public health system has left me feeling like a lost cause. I made a booking with a private psychologist then cancelled the next day. Is this common? My past experiences have been less than stellar. I have met some very good therapists in the past and met others that were openly hostile towards me. I am not confident I can heal myself but feel I am putting all my eggs in one basket when I book with a new therapist. I am distrustful and fear disappointment. I feel I am living my life from one crisis to another. Such is life I know but I am not confident I am equipped emotionally to move on. Any thoughts, feelings, experiences? Many thanks, HRH

Mudcakes Healthy vs not Healthy thoughts or ideas
  • replies: 1

Basically I feel sometimes the urge to look up people from my past or places to see how they are going. Like I know its bad but its like a curiosity thing too. I guess Im feeling lonely and since I did a load of like 10 weeks worth of in hospital men... View more

Basically I feel sometimes the urge to look up people from my past or places to see how they are going. Like I know its bad but its like a curiosity thing too. I guess Im feeling lonely and since I did a load of like 10 weeks worth of in hospital mental health treatment, I wanna reconnect with people who maybe I misjudged or thought less of but was through the lens's of my anxiety. Issue is I also get ones of people from my past that looking at will distress me. Like damn, I get over thoughts and feelings about this one person and then I randomly just wanna see her damn smile, but she’s hurt me and the way her life has turned out is not what I expected. It’s not what I guess anyone expects wanting to reconnect after therapy to finally have that needed conversation with the girl you confessed your feelings to but never spoke over the phone to find out at 17 she’s expecting a kid. Or to hopefully reconnect with someone else who was special to me years ago to find out he’s basically an incel in the making. But yeah sorry topic changed, point is, is it bad or healthy to think or look people up from my past if its to see if my anxiety messed my view up at the time?

As an organisation that supports people from across Australia, Beyond Blue acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay respect to Elders past and present.

First Nations Peoples are advised that this website may include reference to and images of deceased persons.

Beyond Blue is committed to safe inclusive spaces, policies and services for people of LGBTIQ+ communities and their families.

Helpful information

Stay in touch

Sign up below for regular emails from Beyond Blue, filled with information, advice and support for you or your loved ones.

Stay in touch

Talk it through with us, we'll point you in the right direction.

Call 1300 224 636

24 hours / 7 days a week

Chat Online

24 hours / 7 days a week

Email us

Get a reply in 24 hours

Copyright © 2026 Beyond Blue Ltd

All rights reserved

Contact us Terms of use Privacy policy Site map