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Daniel:
How do you
feel when you're imagining these horrible things? If it doesn't upset you or
limit your ability to function at work or with your family, then you're probably
just a worrywart who knows enough to imagine the very worst. If it does upset
you, make you feel anxious, or affect your ability to function, you may have an
element of stress disorder. (I've been there and done that, though my symptoms
are quite different.) In PTSD, the emotional part of your brain isn't in synch
with the rational part of your brain. There are specific exercises that can work
on that. Also, relaxation exercises, finding distractions when you start
thinking distressing things, and generally attempting to decrease your baseline
stress levels can help.
There's a
good chance that your program has access to a CISM team or Employee Assistance
Program. Failing that, check with your local fire and/or EMS providers. I'd
recommend that you chat with those folks if you're really concerned, and
definitely if this tendency distresses or impairs you.
Laurie
Romig
Bayflite, St.
Pete, FL
Hi
all,
I wanted to get feedback
from all of you regarding something that has been happening to me somewhat
imperceptibly over the years but has gotten worse the last couple of years. I
noticed after the birth of my first child (Haley) two and a half years ago
that I increasingly imagine horrible things happening to her. I do not imagine
me doing horrible things to her; I just imagine accidents, trauma, disease
etc. It seems like if my mind has nothing better to do it will find some
trigger and I will go off on some traumatic scenario in my head. I don’t think
it is a huge problem right now, it is more irritating
than anything. My wife thinks I am paranoid because I am so protective of my
daughter. I am sure that we have the safest home for a child to live in. I
have got cupboard latches, outlet protectors, and the works. I have been in
EMS for 15 years now
and flying for 3. I am sure this is a form of Post Traumatic Stress and was
wondering if this is a common manifestation. I have never really had problems
with nightmares or anything. I have had those mass casualty dreams where I am
the only rescuer there etc. but nothing that has really bothered me. I guess I
had this begin before my daughter was born, I would just imagine bad things
happening to me. I am glad that this is the only result of all the bad stuff
that I have seen; it could be a lot worse I guess. I was wondering if any of
you have similar issues or if you have any
tips/advice.
Daniel
R. Teasdale RN, NREMT-P
Flight
Nurse
Classic
Lifeguard
www.classiclifeguard.com
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