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PTSD after physical abuse
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Im new here. Struggling so much today. Im a registered nurse, working in palliative care. 3 months ago my fiance physically assaulted me. A week later I saw my GP and went to the police to make a statement. Life ever since has been surreal, court, protection orders, safety plans, MRIs and CT scans, all on top of shift work and raising my son. I saw GP and psychologist last week and am now taking time off. I feel as if I may never recover, that this incident will define my life. This week has been the hardest of my life. Ive felt that I was strong and resilient until now. Have been told my mental health might get worse before it gets better. That thought is terrifying. Starting antidepressants tomorrow.
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Hi SMS76,
Welcome to the forum. It is really great that you are reaching out here for additional support. I am very sorry to hear about the traumatic incident that has happened to you. You are not alone. Many people experience trauma through domestic violence and you can recover. It will take time and persistence but you have taken some very brave steps towards your recovery early in your journey which is a positive start. Be kind to yourself during this process of healing.
When you are in the middle of an experience, especially one that is unfamiliar to you, it can feel like it has no end. This is a normal feeling and posing big questions like ‘will I ever feel good again?’ or ‘how long will it take for me to feel good again?’, is also normal. The answers are not always clear and I encourage people who are in the hardest part of their healing to take things one day or even one moment at a time.
There is a really interesting practice called Mindfulness you might discuss with your psychologist. It can help you to stay in the moment and can help reduce worry about the future or past for some people. By being in the moment, you allow your mind to rest which is really important in your healing. Many psychologists can show you some Mindfulness strategies but if you want to have a look yourself you could try an app called Smiling Mind.
During this really tough period in your life I also encourage you to reach out for more support than usual. Tell friends or family that you might need them more over the next few months than you normally would. You also sound as though you have a strong health care team around you which is also important.
If you need to talk with someone there is also the beyondblue support line on 1300 22 4636 anytime of the day or night. They are always available to sit with you and listen.
Healing from a traumatic event like you have endured will take time but it can happen. You are so strong for getting supports in place to protect yourself and your son and are now gathering even more support by being here. This is so hard to do when you are struggling and you are doing it. Please acknowledge your own strength and resilience.
Another support number is 1800RESPECT or you can visit the website https://www.1800respect.org.au/ There is a lot of support, information and contact numbers on this site.
Wishing you the best possible outcome,
Nurse Jenn
