Flashbacks are uninvited guests. They can suddenly arrive, out of the blue, even a long time afterwards sometimes. Their effects can be powerful and distressing. In fact, a flashback feels as though you’re back in the middle of your traumatic experience or reliving some aspect of it. It can seem like it’s happening all over again. The memories can be in vivid detail.
Having to cope with them can be frustrating and, at times, even embarrassing. Understanding your flashbacks better and learning ways to manage them can help a lot. It can empower you.
“Flashbacks are annoying and can make me feel out of control. They’re hard to explain to people who say, ‘just get over it’. I’m learning to ground myself better and they’re not as frequent or intense now, finally!” (Kara)
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Understanding trauma reactions
Flashbacks can be one of several reactions people experience after a traumatic event or situation. When these reactions become strong and start to affect your life a lot, you may have developed PTSD – Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
Learn more about Traumatic Stress from the Help Guide
https://www.helpguide.org/articles/ptsd-trauma/traumatic-stress.htmNZ’s Mental Health Foundation’s information about PTSD
https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/get-help/a-z/resource/45/post-traumatic-stress-disorderThe Victoria (Australia) state government provides online consumer-focused health and medical information about PTSD here.
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/ConditionsAndTreatments/post-traumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd
Need Help with flashbacks?
How to find a doctor, counsellor or mental health professional in NZ
https://www.mentalhealth.org.nz/get-help/in-crisis/find-a-gp-or-counsellor/
Innovative Support Resources
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