United Brachial Plexus Network, Inc.

Hi guys I've not posted here in ages. When I last posted about the PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) some of you were interested to hear an update so here goes. It's been four and a half years since the accident which lost me my job, right arm use and a lot of self confidence in general. The PTSD wasn't diagnosed until a couple of years and was a living hell at it's worst, BUT it IS treatable which was a massive relief. Antidepressants were prescribed and anxiety meds. I also had a few sessions with a counsellor. The racing thoughts symptom which worried me so much has mainly gone, yes! It felt like sometimes I was actually losing the battle for sanity but changing to a decent doc has helped so much. The difficulty focusing and concentrating remains though better. To the point that now I am training to become a Pilates teacher and can be a productive member of society again. The bad dreams and night sweats haven't gone away but are less frequent. The insomnia has also improved. The depression is mainly under control and it is a actually good to be alive again, most days. The mood swings are also much better. The anxiety is less of a problem now I have learned what makes it worse and avoid that (mainly big crowds or driving long distances alone)All in all, although socially I am much less gregarious than I used to be, life is moving forward. If you have or think you may have PTSD and/or depression TAKE HEART it IS treatable with time and effort, you need to find the correct professional help and really spend time working on it though.
Hope you're all doing well and take care :O)

Dave

forgot to mention that my BPI arm got good recovery eventually, there is no relation between the injuries and PTSD apparently.

Hi Dave

Thanks so much for posting your information will really help others.

I am surprised to learn that ptsd is not related to your injury. I would assume that bpi and accident had a lot to do with it.

thanks again I hope all is well with you
Kath

hello Dave.......so good to hear that things are unwinding for you !! I've been quite the MIA meself. Looks as if you are due a trip to Spain? A little fishing and other sorts of R & R ?? Looking forward to pics...........

All the best to you and your new employment venture. Of course you know we'll need updates as you progress. I'm glad you're doing better mate...........where does the time go ????????