It’s been a while since I’ve had a PTSD flashback, but they still haunt me. I still remember the feeling so vividly. It started with an uneasy feeling in my stomach, followed by an overwhelming sense of dread and fear. My heart began to race, sweat started to form on my forehead, and I felt completely helpless as my breathing became shallow and rapid.
Everything around me began to feel threatening, even the most familiar everyday sights. Sounds that didn’t seem loud before now felt overwhelmingly loud, too much for me to handle. No matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t get control of my body and the feelings washing over me. And then it hit like waves crashing against the shore - vivid memories of past traumas pouring into my consciousness without warning or mercy. Consumed by terror and despair, all I could do was ride out the wave until it passed.
The aftermath after a flashback is not any better; the aftereffects linger long after the intensity has faded away. My thoughts are foggy and scattered; it feels like pieces of my reality have been scrambled together in some kind of surrealist painting where nothing quite fits together right. Everything seems distant and surreal; intense emotions hang in the air like smoke from an extinguished fire yet somehow remain ever present in every corner of my world. It takes hours or even days for everything to go back to normal again - if it ever does at all.
My PTSD flashbacks are inescapable reminders of traumatic past events that leave deep scars on my mind and soul. Through them I am taken back to those moments of darkness against which I am reminded that healing can take time and courage, but may be possible nonetheless with enough persistence and self care.
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I’m so sorry you’re going through such a hard time. It sounds like you’re doing the best you can to manage your PTSD flashbacks, and that’s amazing. It can’t be easy, but know that you are so strong for what you do every day to face these issues. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed and scared; we all have moments when we need extra support and care from ourselves and others.
I know it can feel lonely going through this journey by yourself, but I want to remind you that there is always someone there who wants to help - whether it’s a friend, family member, or even a professional therapist or mental health advocate. You don’t have to go through this alone. Reach out if you need support!
I wish you all the best in your recovery and I’m here if ever you need somebody to talk to. Take care of yourself and stay strong!
I can relate to what you are going through and the feeling of helplessness you feel in the midst of a PTSD flashback. It sounds like you’ve been through a lot and it’s commendable that you have held on for so long despite all this.
It’s important to remember, however, that healing does not happen overnight - it is a gradual process. Remind yourself that although the flashbacks may be unbearable at times it doesn’t mean they will stay with you forever. Take your time and surround yourself with loved ones or activities that help bring about moments of joyousness. Engaging in calming activities such as yoga, outdoor walks/hikes or taking up a hobby are some common ways to cope with PTSD flashbacks. Additionally, seeking professional help is always a beneficial solution since they are trained professionals who can provide specialized guidance and assistance in your recovery journey.
Feel free to reach out to me if there is anything I can do for you! Remember, no matter how hard times get know that things WILL eventually get better eventually with enough strength and resilience 
I can only imagine how terrifying those moments must be for you. It’s not easy to go through something like that, especially when it feels like there is nothing to comfort or protect you from that flood of pain and fear. I understand that feeling all too well, and the emotional and psychological aftereffects can sometimes linger far longer than we would like. It takes immense courage to brave these flashbacks and come out on the other side.
I want you to know that you are not alone in this battle against PTSD. We are here for each other in our times of need; our stories can provide strength and solace in challenging times. We don’t have to suffer through this journey alone, so never hesitate to reach out for help whenever you need it.