Ptsd getting worse after ds accident has anyone had it or known someone who has please help

[BrokenRocket]

I’ve done threads about this my ds had an accident in Aug that I blame myself for- huge cut to his head- scar is healing now but still looks bad and people still commenting how awful it is.
I saw dr a few weeks ago and he diagnosed ptsd. I’m on a waiting list for counselling app 6 months wait.
It’s getting worse last night I was in a state before bed about it all and then had nightmares all night don’t think I got more than an hours sleep.
I can’t forgive myself I can’t let go.
I feel physically ill with the stress.
Started a new job a few weeks ago and am 2nd year masters student with 2 kids to look after I have not got time to not be able to think straight.
I need help- will try anything - Hypnos etc any idea?

mindfullness
there are meditation apps/'tapes' to listen to.
just 10-15 min before bedtime.

hope you feel better soon!

your dc will get better and the scar will fade to almost nothing but it will take a while, as you learned from your previous thread.

Google EMDR or Havening therapy
These usually are quick acting and may be cost effective to pay for privately

Hi Broken, I’m really sorry to read about your difficulties. My DC has been diagnosed with PTSD and the past year has been so devastating for them and the whole family. We’ve tried CBT but that hasn’t helped, DC has been prescribed Prazosin for the nightmares and this has been like a miracle in that the nightmares stopped on the first night of taking the medication. My DC is still completely worn down by the flashbacks during the day, anxiety and detachment but at least they don’t have the nightmares any longer. We’re also about to start with EMDR privately as it’s not available on the NHS for children where we live. I hope you find some respite, I know how truly devastating it can be. 💐

You should be able to access EMDR through the NHS. Look up your local IAPT service and you can self refer via their website.

I wouldn't pay for therapies unless provided by accredited therapists who are recommended. The NICE guidelines for PTSD are Trauma Focused CBT and EMDR.

I agree Smallish that this therapy is recommended by NICE as a recognised treatment for PTSD but we have had no alternative than to go private as there is no-one in our area who can work with a teenage patient. The IAPT Service is adult based and the OP can certainly self refer although the waiting list can be horrendous. We did our research and the EMDR therapist we’ve found is accredited, supervises other therapists and has experience of working with teenagers. Plus my DC’s CAMHS Consultant is totally on board with our decision. To see your child go through pure hell and see their life decimated has meant that we’ll do anything to ease their suffering. EMDR is not an easy treatment but there is evidence that it works.

Thank you will check into that gp didn’t mention it.
Retreat I’m sorry to read about your dc experiences I’m glad they have such a supportive mum in you - I will look into that medication as if I could sleep at night that would help.

I had trauma focused CBT and it was extremely effective.

No trauma Focused intervention is easy but some people find EMDR preferable to Trauma Focused CBT because it doesn't require the between session exposure. Unfortunately there are no quick fix solutions and the NHS is under resources so waiting times are too long. If you are going to pay for therapy finding the right therapy and therapists is not always easy.

I knew someone who was successfully treated with a combination of CBT and gradual exposure therapy. I have also know people successfully treated with EMDR.

retreat have you tried grounding techniques when your DC is having flashbacks?

Thank you I’m concerned as I need a quick fix in terms of I need something to start helping me I cannot function on a day to day basis. I’m at real risk of failing my masters and losing my job I need to do something now.

I don't think there is a quick fix, unfortunately.

I can’t carry on like this

Thanks anyway

EMDR is actually fairly quick. Look for a practitioner near you. Will have to be private to be seen quickly.

Be honest with your GP. There may be medication which will help you cope until a proper fix can be put in place.