Thank you Kazzi,
I am feeling better today. It helps to know I am not the only person who feels like this. It helps to reduce the negative self talk about how I should be coping and I feel embarrassed and stupid for over-reacting when I am not even in danger. This stops me from speaking to anyone about it out of fear of being judged. In the past my husband would try to reassure me there was nothing to worry about or once didn't tell me when burning embers were landing on our property 'so I wouldn't worry''. This made me feel stupid for reacting like I did and stopped me trusting him to warn me of danger. I tried to pretend I was OK in front of my kids so they wouldn't worry which wasn't helpful. In contrast when people have commented that it is no wonder I'm frightened in the situation it has allowed me to deal with the situation better without the extra negative thoughts. sorry that is a rambling reply.
Neil, thanks for your reply. I am still trying to achieve the goals my therapist & I set although one will have to be missed this week due to current conditions. One of the things he is encouraging me to do is accept when things don't work out particularly when it is due to reasons out of my control. I just need to get back on track as soon as possible.
I was disappointed with my reaction yesterday because I thought I was doing better as the new goals gave me something to focus on other than bushfires and are designed to build up physical and mental strength/health so eventually I can revisit the exposure therapy re bushfires with better inner resources to cope with it.
The goals I set with the therapist are ones that are important to me.
I agree that having the fires nowhere near me is a big positive except it makes my reaction to them seem stupid. If I was in danger feeling anxious would be normal and I would leave the house and visit someone in a safe area.
