Life with PTSD after surviving Domestic Abuse

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By Jennifer

The Trauma Isn’t Over

When you find your way out of a domestic abuse relationship some may assume that it’s all over and you’re ‘safe’, that the trauma is over, however, that’s not the case. I have PTSD after surviving domestic abuse. 5 years on from leaving a 2.5 year abusive relationship, I find myself affected daily by triggers and memories.

I have been diagnosed with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Many just assume it’s a condition a soldier may have after serving for their country. A war veteran may hear a car backfire and think it’s gunfire causing them to freeze with fear. Well, for me, it can be a smell, a certain look, a man casually walking down the street who looks similar to my abuser.

PTSD after surviving Domestic Abuse

So many everyday situations can cause triggers, which cause fear and distress. Yet, most people who know me will not recognise the challenge I face every day to function. It can be such small things that become impossible all because of the trauma which has caused my PTSD. I went to take my car to be valeted at my local car wash, but froze when the man washing the cars had a beard and the hood of his jumper over his head. I couldn’t go in and had to drive on for a few more miles to the next car wash.

For me, my mental health is affected hugely by the attacks and abuse suffered many years ago. 5 years on and I’m still suffering, still terrified by nightmares and shaken by memories. Yet, I never thought, when I managed to escape the abusive situation, that I would still be suffering 5 years on.

The anxiety and fear caused can be debilitating. Truth be told, it really does affect my life, my friendships and my relationship. I am 1 in 4. Thankfully, I have learned to accept my mental health issues and seek support to help ease the triggers.