How do I know if I have PTSD?

[Guest_10319]

I have struggled with my mental health for a very long time (nearly 40 years). I've been given medications on and off over the years and have had numerous counselling sessions.  Around 18 months ago, I split up with my partner. He knows my history and has been very understanding and patient, but I'm so full of guilt and shame that I thought it was best thing to do.  Recently a friend asked me who had told me I had PTSD, and I couldn't remember. I'm an older person and my mind isn't as sharp as it used to be (however I can remember all the horrible things that I'd rather forget).  I'm wondering now if I have been treated correctly over the years because I've been telling my doctor and counsellors that I have PTSD.  Do I ask my GP if he can diagnose my mental health issues? Or ask for a referral to someone who can? I really need help and so desperately need to know I'm on the right track. Thank you

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

Yes, your GP is the first stop to a referral to a specialist.

There is nothing to compare with a proper diagnosis apart from a second opinion. Is it PTSD or do you grieve more than most? Is it PTSD or are have you not got closure yet? These are the issues that a diagnosis can give you so it's really not ideal to take other people's opinion on these things but check it out anyway.

Guilt is a big problem and like you I've suffered from that all my life as I had a domineering manipulative mother. So I have a few links and you only need to read the first post of each.

https://forums.beyondblue.org.au/t5/staying-well/guilt-the-tormentor/td-p/321604

https://www.wmyc.vic.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Beyond-Blue-Grief-and-Loss-factsheet.pdf

I hope that helps.  Reply anytime

TonyWK

[Ggrand]

Hello Dear KitBennett,

A very warm and caring welcome to the forums…

PTSD is something I struggle with a lot, I was diagnosed by my psychiatrist after my husband passed away, due to years of physical, emotional and sexual abuse…

The best way to find out if you do struggle with PTSD is to talk to your Dr. and have them set you up with a mental health care plan, so you can talk to some professionals…most physiologist don’t diagnose….they do mostly talk therapy, and teach us how to cope when we’re feeling depressed, anxious etc…., either your Dr or a psychiatrist are the best professionals to be able to diagnose your mental health….

I am so sorry that you are struggling mental right now and do hope that a proper diagnosis can start you on your way towards wellness…

My kindest thoughts Dear KitBennett…and a gentle caring hug….

Grandy..

[Guest_10319]

Thank you white knight. It is so sad that people can find satisfaction in torturing others. It's even worse when those people do it to the ones they are supposed to love. It wasn't until I gave birth to my daughter that I was triggered and the horror of my childhood surfaced. I will never understand how my parents could do that to me, nor will I ever forgive them. My father is deceased, but my mother is still alive. I've confronted her more than once, but she denies any wrong doing, saying that I've always been fanciful. As I've gotten older, my mental and physical health are both deteriorating.  I know I have a lot of work to do,  and I'm ready.  I made an appointment with my GP today and I'm looking forward to starting my healing journey.

I appreciate you white night

[Guest_10319]

Thank you Ggrand. I have made an appointment to see my GP. 

I am sorry for your struggles over the years my friend, and I hope you've been able to find some peace as you work through the traumas of your past.

Your hug has been most welcome and I'm sending one in return.

Be kind to yourself Ggrand - I appreciate you

[white knight]

Feel free to post your progress or anything you wish. You are brave

TonyWK 

[Ggrand]

Hello Dear Guest,

Thank you for the hug…I really do appreciate it..

I am so pleased to hear that you have made an appointment with your GP…That is a huge step forward….Im so proud of you Guest….it’s a hard first step to take…

I wish you all the best wishes I have to give you…looking forward to hearing from you again….no pressure…

My kindest hopes and thoughts for some peace for you Dear Guest..

Grandy🤗🌹.