I’m writing this because I feel tremendously relieved and need to get this wild journey out of my head.
- In November last year I stopped working.
- In January I started antidepressants and applied for the NDIS.
- In March I found a GP who is female, LGBTQ, bulk bills, does Telehealth and has experience with mental illness. She confirmed my CPTSD diagnosis for the first time and guided me on my current medication.
- In April I found a physiotherapist that charges $10 and helped me with related body pain.
- Also in April I found a female psychologist that bulk billed, accepted MHP and CDM, is trauma specialised, does Telehealth and offers CBT and DBT treatments.
- Also in April I found a massage therapist that charges $30 and has lived experience with CPTSD.
- In May I found a hairdresser who charges $10 and cuts my hair short how I like it.
- In June I found and engaged free service lawyers and the NRS for the first time.
- Also in June I found Yin and Vinyasa yoga for the first time.
- Also in June I participated in a health coaching study, got my bloods done and set goals for my physical health.
- Also in June I found online mental health groups, including this one. I started calling helplines more regularly and spoke with lived experience workers for the first time.
- This month (July) I was able to notice self harm ideation and admitted myself to an urgent care centre for the first time.
- Today I had my first acupuncture appointment for $30 with great results.
- Tomorrow I have my ADHD assessment with a psychiatrist for $850.
- Next week I start group DBT for the first time.
- In August I will start Occupational Therapy for $30 and get a pre assessment for the NDIS for $250.
- Also in August I will try seeing a chiropractor.
It’s been 9 months since I quit. I’ve used up almost all my life savings. I’ve spent so many days lying in bed, and yet I don’t think I’ve ever worked harder in my life.
I read that it takes at least 10 years of treatment to recover from CPTSD. So far I’ve done 6. I think things are starting to look up?
