I saw my mom on lifesupport, suffering from cancer and was wondering if i might !


Question:

I saw my mom on lifesupport, suffering from cancer and was wondering if i might have post traumatic stress?

she ended up passing away (i was only 15, now 20) and i have depression, socially withdraw myself, emotionally numb and detached, and everytime i go back to my hometown, my depression worsens. i had a relationship where i couldn't connect w/his family and friends and eventually alienated him because i was too scared that they could fill the void that i wanted to be filled. he had a relative in the hospital and i alienated him even more at a time when he needed me. i never really took the time to cope with her death and realize now that i've been in denial of myself and situations. I'm starting to believe that i have ptsd at least some mild form of it, but was just wondering what you guys thought before i go see a counselor. thanks


Answers:

Absolutely. It is a matter of how one defines a traumatic experience and unfortunately the DSM definition is narrow in suggesting that the experience has to be outside the general realm of experience or represent a real or perceived threat to one's self.
You described a couple of characteristics specifically associated with PTSD: emotional blunting and detachment and avoidance of trigger situations. Seeing your Mom in that condition and at that age most certainly would be traumatic for most anyone and I wonder if you have intrusive thoughts or images from that memory that you try to suppress as well? Unresolved grief can most certainly be a precursor for PTSD and I'm glad you are planning to see someone to help you work through it, whether they label it as such or not. Complicated Bereavement presents in many ways and a counselor trained in grief counseling could help tremendously, even if they don't necessarily diagnose it as PTSD.
You have tremendous insight to have been able to recognize these connections and I have no doubt that you will find therapy extremely valuable. Best of luck to you-I am deeply sorry for your loss. Blessed Be.




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