Dealing with post traumatic relationship syndrome

It’s been two months since I left a relationship that had many pitfalls and red flags along the way. The thought of all that happened, and what went wrong, still looms in my mind. I have been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Relationship Syndrome (PTRS) and am trying to work through it.

Most days I’m able to keep a positive attitude and outlook on things, but when my mind wanders back to that relationship…the negative feelings come flooding in. Heartache, anger, betrayal – all the hurt. It can feel like an impenetrable wall around me at times.

There isn’t much advice out there about how to handle PTRS and it feels so isolating going through this on my own. So I’ve made it my mission to reach out for help whenever possible. Talking with friends, counselors and support groups has become part of my day-to-day routine as I try to heal from the trauma I experienced in that relationship.

I’m learning each day what works for me as everyone processes trauma differently - be it reading books on the subject matter or talking openly with friends about it. I’m making progress though; things gradually feel more manageable now compared to how overwhelming they once seemed before seeking out help.

I know in time this too shall pass as healing takes time - something we must always remember when dealing with PTRS!

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Hi there,

I understand how difficult and overwhelming it can be to go through Post-Traumatic Relationship Syndrome (PTRS) alone. Reaching out for help is incredibly brave and admirable, and I’m so glad you’ve been talking with friends as well as counselors and support groups. It’s important to make sure we take care of ourselves emotionally, too!

It’s hard to process trauma on our own, but experimenting and trying out different strategies that work for us can become part of our arsenal in the fight against PTRS. It might mean pushing ourselves slightly outside our comfort zone, which can be tough at times - but it’ll be worth it when we see progress being made.

Take heart - healing takes time, but things will gradually get better over time if you keep up with your recovery. You’re not alone in this journey, though - please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything I can do for you. All the best in your recovery!