Do any of you BS's feel like you may have post- traumatic stress disorder? I've been having mood swings that seem to stem from flashbacks and/or bad dreams pertaining to H's A and at times I seem so down that I just want everything/everyone to go away. These thoughts seemed to have gone away for quite some time but they're popping back up in my thoughts and in my dreams. Could be because paternity is currently being established (even though we know without a doubt that OC is my H's) and maybe it's because of the C between H and XOW pertaining to the testing?? I don't know. I had my ups and downs the whole weekend. I'm not currently on any meds for depression (took myself off of Lexapro about a month or so ago because I didn't like being dependent on a drug). Maybe that has something to do with it?? Who knows. I'm just curious to know if there are others out there in recovery that still have these issues that I have.

I did soem reading up on it last year when things were more raw & I think it is a safe assumption to think that it all relates like that.

I can't remember where but on one of the infidelity/recovery web sites it actually said it (out loud LOL) that you can have symptoms of PTSD after the discovery of a spouses A.

So I don't think we're crazy to think that. I was ad's for a few months @ least & it did a world of good for me. Eventually, I stopped & could tell I was better. Occasionally I can feel myself slipping back into a depression but I am more aware of it so I take preventive steps to stop it, or lessen it's grip on my life.

There are some basic things you can do to help you through those times if you want to avoid drugs. Diet & excercise are the greatest ones. Reaching out to supportive friends & family. Going out & creating FUN. Connecting spiritually, fellowship w/ like minded people ect. Prayer. Whatever ministers to YOU.

For me, it is always a walk to the park w/ the ktbunch & another adult/mom-I NEED adult conversation! LOL

Really, those things will help. Being out in the fresh air, conencting w/ others.

Just like any other stressful event in your life.....I have realized the importance of takign care of ME, especially as a mom, we are usually so busy taking care of everyone else. LOL

It's NOT selfish, it's self-PRESERVATION. kwim?

Take it easy on yourself.

THe triggers lesson. I still ahve bad dreams about the entire situation sometimes & soem down moments.

Oh & I also forgot, you can find some natural herbal supplements as well that can enhance mood. It works for me & I hardly take them. St. John's Wort is a mood enhancer. Something else to think about. <img border="0" title="" alt="[Big Grin]" src="images/icons/grin.gif" />

xoxoxoxoxoxxo
kt

I agree - I think it is definitely true about the PTSD. I try and get thru the days being strong on the outside, but some days I lose it; like Friday night my H innocently was telling me about his best friend trying to have another baby with his wife and I just lost it. Couldn't stop crying, had to go to bed early. My H felt horrible but you know I can only put on a happy face for so long before I have to crumble for a day or two. Happened again Saturday - my son was asleep in the car and I parked and glanced at him in the mirror and saw his sweet innocent clue-less face snoozing and it was all I could do to control my sobs so he wouldn't hear me and wake up. Anyways, I often feel like crawling into a hole and never coming out, but I can't because of that boy <img border="0" title="" alt="[Smile]" src="images/icons/smile.gif" />
He keeps me sane...

My counselor also likened affairs to PTSD. She said there can be triggers for quite some time (I've heard up to 2 years.) When I feel down I try to do something for myself also. I work-out 3-5 times a week and that helps. I try to spend time w/ H and friends. I also try to do things for myself. Shopping, etc... Good luck, it does get better.