Those of us with PTSD or secondary PTSD can be prone to panic. On full alert 24/7, we are subconsciously braced for attack at any time. From anywhere. By anything.
I was reminded of this today. Out for my usual long invigorating walk through the neighborhood, I was enjoying the beautiful morning, praying and being grateful, while still keenly aware of my surroundings. Suddenly I heard footsteps behind me! Startled and panicked, not stopping to look back, I put my hand on my self defense weapon and sped up.
Heart pounding, I just kept walking faster to get away without any confrontation. Then I heard the noise again right behind me! I ran! Trembling, I quickly glanced back over my shoulder.
It was a plastic bag blowing in the wind! There was no one there. Just a noisy bag. A very scary noisy bag!
Once I settled down, I laughed. Pretty silly looking back, but at the time it felt like a life and death situation. And I’m pretty sure that only people who battle PTSD will be able to relate.
So what is my take-away from this? First, remember that we are hypervigilant, and that is okay. Share with those close to us so they can be aware and supportive. Explore resource options for ongoing support (see www.LoveOurVets.org for lots of helpful resources).
And finally, keep our sense of humor! I actually ended up talking with that silly plastic bag as I continued on my walk. We are friends now. Not sure what the neighbors think but that is okay!
Welby O’Brien holds a Master’s Degree in counseling from Portland State University and a teaching degree from Biola University, and based on her own life journey she has authored LOVE OUR VETS: Restoring Hope for Families of Veterans with PTSD (www.LoveOurVets.org), Goodbye for Now (grief support), and Formerly A Wife (divorce support). She is also a contributing author to Chicken Soup for the Soul: Divorce and Recovery,Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Spirit of America, as well as Shepherding Women in Pain. Welby initiated and continues to facilitate the spouse and family support network known as Love Our Vets – PTSD Family Support, LLC. Join Welby and thousands of others on Facebook: Love Our Vets – PTSD Family Support, LLC on Facebook.
