You are not alone --- I was diagnosed with it many years ago and lately, it has been rearing it's ugly self. I, too, suffer from fibromyalgia which has been crippling for the past couple of weeks with no relief other than sleep. The medications I'm on seem to be worthless and I continue ongoing psychotherapy. Although today is my Birthday, I have no plans because I couldn't even manage to get to my DRS office this week. If I hear from anyone, it will be a miracle. It's tough for others who can't see what ails you, frustrating when they don't know how to help, and probably depressing for them to be around me although I try to be upbeat and joyful around them.
When my sleep is invaded by the PTSD, I wake completely tense and struggle to get up and do something, so the memories abate. I'm hopeful that somewhere, someone will find something to erase this constant pain and give me my life back.

Hello @swtbrooke and welcome to Mayo Connect and I wish you a happy birthday!

I appreciate your post on PTSD. How difficult that is - we have many members who have discussed how it blindsides them and hits them out of the blue. Chronic pain seems to compound the problem because of the sleep disturbances.

If you are comfortable sharing more about yourself, what treatments or lifestyle changes have you tried? I'm thinking of dietary changes, simple exercise routines that would increase range of motion and flexibility and/or meds, counseling or support groups?

We look forward to getting to know you better and I hope that you can find a way to celebrate your birthday today, doing something that you would enjoy.

Teresa

Hi, @swtbrooke -- just thinking of you and wondering how things are going with your PTSD and challenges with your sleep due to it, and also with your fibromyalgia?

Also thought you might like to check out this thread on fibromyalgia so you can meet some of our members discussing this condition: http://mayocl.in/2Bq8pqT

@lisalucier PTSD is my constant companion. I was disappointed to realize the therapist has run out of ideas. At least I now have validation is I need it lest some other GP gives a diagnosis of Paranoid Schizophrenic I now know a lot of how I react is PTSD and this does help with the daily life. Also why negative stuff comes at me from long ago. Usually come when defenses are down and I am in a good place. I am not crazy after all. A tad on the eccentric side is all. Thankful to have art to keep me occupied as it is a distraction.
Thank you for checking in with me. It helps.

@parus

Yes, there are certain circumstances that give PTSD full reign, aren't there? Have you ever heard of "HALT?"

This acronym recommends not getting too hungry, too angry, too lonely or too tired. Any of these can add to the development of a really bad time with PTSD.

I believe it was you who once posted that you often go to the store just to see a smiling face and other people. That is a great way to keep from feeling too lonely.

Teresa

@hopeful33250 Loneliness, pain and fatigue keep me captive. I will be seeing the pain specialist the end of this month. I am fearful of asking for help due to fear of appearing as drug-seeking. I need some help with the pain. The medications for fibromyalgia do terrible things to my mind. I had auditory/visual hallucinations. Pain is better. I also became impulsive which is not typical.
Loneliness is better than the alternative. Grocery store is safe as I am not personally involved.
I am frustrated the therapist was out of ideas. As I have thus stated-she was honest. I feel like a hopeless case. My issue.

@parus You are so insightful that I find it hard to believe that you are a "hopeless case." Just because the therapist was out of ideas does not mean that there isn't somebody that can help you. You are creative and articulate - you will find answers along the way.

Teresa

@hopeful33250 Can be a lonely journey. Could be worse. I do not think she meant I was a hopeless case. Think I was too far out of the box again.

@parus

Personally, I've never like boxes - I prefer to be a bit distinctive - something we have in common!

Teresa

@hopeful33250 Thing is I do not try to be distinctive. Have always walked ti the beat of my own little drum and cannot continue walking to the beat of another's drum. We are who we are...
I am tired and thinking about calling it a day at 7:30 p.m.