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Amandisa16
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Number of ratings27 Number of reviews11 Listens toOver 18 LanguagesEnglish Listener sinceNov 22, 2016 Last activein last 6 months GenderFemale PathStep 141 People helped31 Chats294 Group support chats130 Listener group chats2 Forum posts429 Forum upvotes1,094
Bio
 
I'm currently on a self-care break.

Hi! if you need someone to talk to, I am here to listen and to support you.  I am a Verified Active Listener, I enjoy giving emotional support to those who are going through hard/tough times. I receive chats on issues such as
Trauma, Depression, Lonliness, Anxiety, Social AnxietyDisability, Emotional Abuse.
If I am online then please feel free to start a chat, (a chat will normally last for one hour).  If I am offline then send me a message and we can set up a time to connect. Or we can message one another offline if that would be easier for you.smiley
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Recent forum posts
Traumatic Experiences Community Daily Check-In Wednesday 16th May 2018
Trauma Support / by Amandisa16
Last post
May 18th, 2018
...See more Hi Trauma Family hope you are all well. At work last week I was talking with a colleague of mine about a demonstration that was happening nearby. To my suprise this softly spoken timid woman suddenly became extremely fiery, as she shared how she and a few other mothers had handcuffed themselves to the gates of the local Primary School! This was because the school was about to be closed down, she was absolutely livid! These "feisty mothers" decided that they would do everything they could to keep this school open. She said this, "Coming from a background where I did not have the educational opportunities that others had, the education of children is of the utmost importance to me, I want them to have the opportunities that were not offered to me". We all have causes that are close to our hearts, things that we are really pasionate about. Things that we want to change in our society and communities. So what causes do people become passionate about? Here are some examples: *Domestic Violence, *The Prevention of Child Abuse, *The environment, *Racial Injustice, *Gay Rights. Some causes will be very personal to the individual, for example the Cancer Research "Race for Life Event" is run by hundreds maybe thousands of women each year. Many of these women have battled through Cancer themeselves, or have lost someone close to them to Cancer. Our Traumas can also birth a new passion in us to see justice, freedom, rights and change etc. So what are some of the causes that I am passionate about? The prevention of child abuse, Homelessness, Animal Welfare, and Human Trafficking. How about you? 1) What cause(s) are close to your heart? 2) Is there anything that you would like to share with us about this cause? 3) Was the passion for this cause birthed out of a traumatic experience that you suffered? Maybe you don't feel passionate about any cause right now, that's okay too. Tell us how your day has been, we would love to hear from you. To add or remove your name to our new Trauma Sub Community General tag list to be notified of new threads in the Trauma Sub Community please click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pzC6N19QCxy4LRMJqXKd5L6pyF_pKRY8cfXaZYXb6Nk/edit] @Rain45 @Avaray @Shadeshack @BeeLeigh @Faeryschild @Lavendermoonlight @KLM3278 @jr50 @agreeableKite4304 @PhoenixPatronus @Morfo66 @raychascotch @KatieMoon1 @Tamba @Jenna0903 @melliotm @PanamaBanana @inventiveOrange1 @HearingYourHeart @TreesandWine @guyb @Sharkradio @MKjart @Lilyflower0817 @caterpillargirl @Survivetoalive @exuberantTriangle2562 @coraline23 @Ivorycat5573 @fearlessPear8268 @SemicolonSurvivor @weare1 @weareall1 @Annaka1 @moonchild95 @summernight69 @sheaintgotnoshoes @rationalWillow8882 @DeborahUK @AMusicalSilence @catsith @energeticPenny8 @Rebekahwriter13 @behindhazeleyes @sensitiveShade5337 @singercrystalspirit @wittyTree8219 @Ocendade @Rpjrx @Brooke12 @tenacity37 @Raveninthelabrynth @Axeman53 @kkSp3nc3 @blissedNblessed @Softforesthsp77 @AriannaPink @sereneSoul23 @promisemehope @IPreferWinter @Zombii @Godborned @Jessica86 @resourcefulPond1641 @Lilibuth12 @Tir @Michelle0608 @The_Final_Chapter @Halogen @BubblegumPuppy68 @ScarletPear1945 @CaloenasNicobarica @Hoxenos @Christine1980 @TheresaWilliams @Compassionatelistener108 @LovelyChantel @Pureriver56 @unassumingSummer6022 @Reedrainshimmer @resourcefulPond1642 @Kuma0187 @NonHoPaura @courageousNorth9872 @NacienteLuz @Waterlily16 @Helpfulsoul64 @TheHoneyDoll @Saif1for1Resilience @butters45 @purpleWest8143 @silverIceCream21 @Dandelionmoon @Bumblebee16 @consciousawakening @Shaiya365 @archerzvy @JJi @CopingwithTrauma @musicheals61 @disneynerd23 @ScarletPear1945 @Longday08 @sittinginahoneymoon @Quietbeach @loyalYard9488 @thatdramaticsoprano @understandingJackfruit9057 @amiableZebra3993 @Waterstreams057 @placidFriend3007 @AndreT @orchard9786 @sociableSailboat9634 @Calmlake1999 @emotionalMaple9419 @calmballoon3183 @disneynerd23 @MomRNFNP @Pdanziger @easymap6620 @MoreThanAConqueror18 @candyhaunt @namelessgirl99 @plumLake851 @streamoftears @quixoticRaven @Redhawk6547 @Sk1ttles @Shayc1 @Samdoc99 @Mikathewolfdog @Tacomytaco @stella17 @blinkk @PaperCrane1123 @Equalnotabove @felicia96 @CartoonDarling @Tayboi @Compassion21 @lilblackcat89 @ashes @selfdisciplinedTriangle5384 @amiableSummer3420 @FangsInsanity @Anj0806 @Spoonog @rissadawn @brokenflutterby @g00dwitch @No715 @SpruceRaven @tidyMoon3222 @helpfulHuman4992 @Djs3 @dynamicHemlock1736 @Hope3729 @hardworkingStrawberries3477 @courageousCake401 @humorousBeing8966 @NancySV1 @mysticPhoenix883 @oceanmom @gymnast9460 @Nonbinarywaffle7706 @Tbeth @felixfriend @Chels @8883ef @DaisyLion @forcefulSkies @spotthedot @courteousNorth5140 @Alcynically @ArianaMay @SB @affectionateNorth4018 @J12g34 @FloweringBunny @loyalDrum2337 @MaschaV
Traumatic Experiences Community Daily Check-in Wednesday 2nd May 2018
Trauma Support / by Amandisa16
Last post
May 4th, 2018
...See more Hi Trauma Family today I want to focus a bit on the "Positive Influencers" in our lives. Positive Influencers are people that have a positive influence upon others. Positive Influencers help to shape us and to deposit something deep within us. So before we look at what a Positive Influencer looks like, lets first look at Negative Influencers. A Negative Influencer can be a person that critizises you alot, puts you down, constantly undermines you, second guesses you, brings discouragement, is negative, patronising or abusive towards you. For example years ago I watched an episode of the TV show "The Apprentice". In this episode one of the contestants was complaining about another contestant (lets call him Jim, I can't remember his name). Jim had a habit of critizising everyones ideas, and his constant negativity drained the other contestants. One of the contestants had compared Jim to one one of the "Tormentors" in the Harry Potter Novels. While another contestant said this " It's like a hot sunny day and you are sitting on the beach with your ice cream, and you are relatively happy. Then Jim approaches, and the clouds suddenly turn black, there is a sound of thunder, and the birds start falling from the sky!" So what does a Positive Influencer look like? 1)A Positive Influencer will believe in you when no one else does 2)Understand the power of words to build you up 3)Can see positive things about you that no one else can see 4)Might show "tough love" to get you where you need to be 5)Inspire and encourage you to push harder, and reach higher 6)Stand with you through hardships, suffering and trials, offering comfort, encouragement and support. 7)Moves in random act of kindness 8)Exhibits strong leadership abilities When I began to look back on my life I could clearly see who my Postive Influencers were/are. Interestingly enough, I began to see the people that had "fallen between the cracks". Those whose impact at the time may not of seemed that significant, but now with hindsight, I see how influential they really were. Here are some quotes for present/future Positive Influencers: "Dont focus on what others are doing wrong, instead be a light in their lives, a positive influence, a difference maker" (Joel Osteen) "The people that influence you, are the people that believe in you (Brainyquote.com)" "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived, this is to have succeeded. (Ralph Waldo Emerson) "Every day you are leading by example, whether you realise it or not, whether it is positive or negative, you are influencing those around you. (Bonny Cochrane) 1)So what Positive Influencers have been in your life? 2)What impact did they make? 3)If you did not have any Positive Influencers, are there any books, films, websites, stories that have had a positive influence on you? and how did this affect you? 4)Are you a Positive Influencer? If so, how are you impacting the lives of others.? For example supporting individuals on this site may seem like a small act, but it can have a great impact on someones life. Also how has your day been? has it been a good day so far? a bad one? Let us know how you are doing To add or remove your name to our new Trauma Sub Community General tag list to be notified of new threads in the Trauma Sub Community please click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pzC6N19QCxy4LRMJqXKd5L6pyF_pKRY8cfXaZYXb6Nk/edit] @Rain45 @Avaray @Shadeshack @BeeLeigh @Faeryschild @Lavendermoonlight @KLM3278 @jr50 @agreeableKite4304 @PhoenixPatronus @Morfo66 @raychascotch @KatieMoon1 @Tamba @Jenna0903 @melliotm @PanamaBanana @inventiveOrange1 @HearingYourHeart @TreesandWine @guyb @Sharkradio @MKjart @Lilyflower0817 @caterpillargirl @Survivetoalive @exuberantTriangle2562 @coraline23 @Ivorycat5573 @fearlessPear8268 @SemicolonSurvivor @weare1 @weareall1 @Annaka1 @moonchild95 @summernight69 @sheaintgotnoshoes @rationalWillow8882 @DeborahUK @AMusicalSilence @catsith @energeticPenny8 @Rebekahwriter13 @behindhazeleyes @sensitiveShade5337 @singercrystalspirit @wittyTree8219 @Ocendade @Rpjrx @Brooke12 @tenacity37 @Raveninthelabrynth @Axeman53 @kkSp3nc3 @blissedNblessed @Softforesthsp77 @AriannaPink @sereneSoul23 @promisemehope @IPreferWinter @Zombii @Godborned @Jessica86 @resourcefulPond1641 @Lilibuth12 @Tir @Michelle0608 @The_Final_Chapter @Halogen @BubblegumPuppy68 @ScarletPear1945 @CaloenasNicobarica @Hoxenos @Christine1980 @TheresaWilliams @Compassionatelistener108 @LovelyChantel @Pureriver56 @unassumingSummer6022 @Reedrainshimmer @resourcefulPond1642 @Kuma0187 @NonHoPaura @courageousNorth9872 @NacienteLuz @Waterlily16 @Helpfulsoul64 @TheHoneyDoll @Saif1for1Resilience @butters45 @purpleWest8143 @silverIceCream21 @Dandelionmoon @Bumblebee16 @consciousawakening @Shaiya365 @archerzvy @JJi @CopingwithTrauma @musicheals61 @disneynerd23 @ScarletPear1945 @Longday08 @sittinginahoneymoon @Quietbeach @loyalYard9488 @thatdramaticsoprano @understandingJackfruit9057 @amiableZebra3993 @Waterstreams057 @placidFriend3007 @AndreT @orchard9786 @Myosotis17 @sociableSailboat9634 @Calmlake1999 @emotionalMaple9419 @calmballoon3183 @disneynerd23 @MomRNFNP @Pdanziger @easymap6620 @MoreThanAConqueror18 @candyhaunt @namelessgirl99 @plumLake851 @streamoftears @quixoticRaven @Redhawk6547 @Sk1ttles @Shayc1 @Samdoc99 @Mikathewolfdog @Tacomytaco @stella17 @blinkk @PaperCrane1123 @Equalnotabove @felicia96 @CartoonDarling @Tayboi @Compassion21 @lilblackcat89 @ashes @selfdisciplinedTriangle5384 @amiableSummer3420 @FangsInsanity @Anj0806 @Spoonog @rissadawn @brokenflutterby @g00dwitch @No715 @SpruceRaven @tidyMoon3222 @helpfulHuman4992 @Djs3 @dynamicHemlock1736 @Hope3729 @hardworkingStrawberries3477 @courageousCake401 @humorousBeing8966 @NancySV1 @mysticPhoenix883 @oceanmom @gymnast9460 @Nonbinarywaffle7706 @Tbeth @felixfriend @Chels @8883ef @DaisyLion @forcefulSkies @spotthedot @courteousNorth5140 @Alcynically @ArianaMay @SB @affectionateNorth4018 @J12g34
Traumatic Experiences Community Daily Check-in Wednesday 18th April 2018
Trauma Support / by Amandisa16
Last post
April 20th, 2018
...See more Hi Trauma family, I hope you are all well. So for today's check-in I want to talk about "vision", particularly the kind of vision that sustains us through difficult times. So for example as a child I had a communication disability, and had to practice my speech therapy exercises every day. This was at times really hard work, but my vision was that some day I would be able to speak fluently. Therefore I continued practising even through the difficult times. There were many times that I became discouraged and wanted to give up. However I kept my eyes on what my future could look like, and what opportunites might be available to me, if I continued to practice. I will give another example, I recently watched a TV programme about a prisoner who had received a lengthy prison sentence. He new that prison life would be difficult, but he said that he was keeping his eyes fixed upon the day that he would finally be released, to be reunited with his wife and kids. One of my favourite historical figures is Abraham Lincoln. For Abraham had a vision to become the President of the United States. However there were a steady stream of defeats and failures before his dream was realised. In 1832 he lost his job and was defeated in legislature. In 1883 his business failed (both of them), however he was elected to legislature. Abraham was engaged to be married to his childhood sweetheart Ann Rutledge, but she suddenly died and this broke his heart. Ann's death led to Abraham having a mental breakdown the following year in 1836. Abraham remained in bed for six months. Over the next few years there were more defeats. Defeated for Speaker, defeated for nomination for Congress, rejected for Land Officer, defeated for Senate, the list goes on and on! However despite all these setbacks, in 1860 Abraham Lincoln became the President of the United States. Abraham had a vision, a vision that must of strenghened him through all the pain, loss, rejection and heartbreak. During the time of his breakdown he stayed in bed for six months, but one day he made the decision to get up and continue. So what is making you get out of bed in the morning and continue to fight? What is the vision that is sustaining you? What continues to push you forward, whether that be for healing and wholeness, job opportunities, healing of family relationships etc Also how has your day been? This is a safe place, your space xxx To add or remove your name to our new Trauma Sub Community General tag list to be notified of new threads in the Trauma Sub Community please click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pzC6N19QCxy4LRMJqXKd5L6pyF_pKRY8cfXaZYXb6Nk/edit] @Rain45 @Avaray @Shadeshack @BeeLeigh @Faeryschild @Lavendermoonlight @KLM3278 @jr50 @agreeableKite4304 @PhoenixPatronus @Morfo66 @raychascotch @KatieMoon1 @Tamba @Jenna0903 @melliotm @PanamaBanana @inventiveOrange1 @HearingYourHeart @TreesandWine @guyb @Sharkradio @MKjart @Lilyflower0817 @caterpillargirl @Survivetoalive @exuberantTriangle2562 @coraline23 @Ivorycat5573 @fearlessPear8268 @SemicolonSurvivor @weare1 @weareall1 @Annaka1 @moonchild95 @summernight69 @sheaintgotnoshoes @rationalWillow8882 @DeborahUK @AMusicalSilence @catsith @energeticPenny8 @Rebekahwriter13 @behindhazeleyes @sensitiveShade5337 @singercrystalspirit @wittyTree8219 @Ocendade @Rpjrx @Brooke12 @tenacity37 @Raveninthelabrynth @Axeman53 @kkSp3nc3 @blissedNblessed @Softforesthsp77 @AriannaPink @sereneSoul23 @promisemehope @IPreferWinter @Zombii @Godborned @Jessica86 @resourcefulPond1641 @Lilibuth12 @Tir @Michelle0608 @The_Final_Chapter @Halogen @BubblegumPuppy68 @ScarletPear1945 @CaloenasNicobarica @Hoxenos @Christine1980 @TheresaWilliams @Compassionatelistener108 @LovelyChantel @Pureriver56 @unassumingSummer6022 @Reedrainshimmer @resourcefulPond1642 @Kuma0187 @NonHoPaura @courageousNorth9872 @NacienteLuz @Waterlily16 @Helpfulsoul64 @TheHoneyDoll @Saif1for1Resilience @butters45 @purpleWest8143 @silverIceCream21 @Dandelionmoon @Bumblebee16 @consciousawakening @Shaiya365 @archerzvy @JJi @CopingwithTrauma @musicheals61 @disneynerd23 @ScarletPear1945 @Longday08 @sittinginahoneymoon @Quietbeach @loyalYard9488 @thatdramaticsoprano @understandingJackfruit9057 @amiableZebra3993 @Waterstreams057 @placidFriend3007 @AndreT @orchard9786 @Myosotis17 @sociableSailboat9634 @Calmlake1999 @emotionalMaple9419 @calmballoon3183 @disneynerd23 @MomRNFNP @Pdanziger @easymap6620 @MoreThanAConqueror18 @candyhaunt @namelessgirl99 @plumLake851 @streamoftears @quixoticRaven @Redhawk6547 @Sk1ttles @Shayc1 @Samdoc99 @Mikathewolfdog @Tacomytaco @stella17 @blinkk @PaperCrane1123 @Equalnotabove @felicia96 @CartoonDarling @Tayboi @Compassion21 @lilblackcat89 @ashes @selfdisciplinedTriangle5384 @amiableSummer3420 @FangsInsanity @Anj0806 @Spoonog @rissadawn @brokenflutterby @g00dwitch @No715 @SpruceRaven @tidyMoon3222 @helpfulHuman4992 @Djs3 @dynamicHemlock1736 @Hope3729 @hardworkingStrawberries3477 @courageousCake401 @humorousBeing8966 @NancySV1 @mysticPhoenix883 @oceanmom @gymnast9460 @Nonbinarywaffle7706 @Tbeth @felixfriend @Chels @8883ef @DaisyLion @forcefulSkies @spotthedot @courteousNorth5140 @Alcynically @ArianaMay @SB @affectionateNorth4018 @J12g34
Traumatic Experiences Community Daily Check-in Wednesday 4th April 2018
Trauma Support / by Amandisa16
Last post
April 6th, 2018
...See more Hi Trauma Family, when going through a traumatic period or recovering from a traumatic event, we look for support from our friends family and peers etc. However, support (comfort,encouragement, inspiration) can also manifest through "creative means". For example a friend commented that the song "Don't give up" by Kate Bush and Peter Gabrielle had brought her great comfort in her darkest times. The well know singer Adel is known for her heartfelt songwriting, and as a result many have felt comforted by her songs. How about books? "The Colour Purple" written by Alice Walker explores themes such as child abuse, domestic violence, empowerment and liberation. This book has strengthened many over the years. Have you watched the film The Matrix (1)? I first watched this film in 1999. There is something about the last scene of this film that I found strangely comforting. In this scene Neo (the main character played by Keanu Reeves) died. His oppressors had succeeded in killing him and you think that it is all over, but then he comes back to life. This time when the "Agents" (baddies) try and kill him he is far more powerful than before, and he easily overcomes them. Neo now know's who he is (his identity), and now the Agents (baddies) have to acknowledge who he is. Acknowledging that he is strong, resilliant, and powerful! I just love this scene, because it's about "fighting back" overcoming those who try to destroy you, and stepping into your identity. How about poetry? one of my favourite poems is by Maya Angelo "Still I rise", here is a verse from this poem; You may shoot me with your words You many cut me with your eyes You may kill me with your hatefullnesss But still like air I rise. So how about you? As you walk on your road to recovery are their songs, books, TV series, films, music, artwork, poetry etc that has inspired you or provided you with comfort, encouragement or strength along the way? If so what impact did this have on you? How has your day been? this is a your place a safe space To add or remove your name from daily check-ins click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1TDFMP7KztoMv2a7h6pOlk6Yjd7qO7inR3_RIBR8gvyI/viewform?edit_requested=true] To add or remove your name to our new Trauma Sub Community General tag list to be notified of new threads in the Trauma Sub Community please click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pzC6N19QCxy4LRMJqXKd5L6pyF_pKRY8cfXaZYXb6Nk/edit] @Rain45 @Avaray @Shadeshack @BeeLeigh @Faeryschild @Lavendermoonlight @KLM3278 @jr50 @agreeableKite4304 @PhoenixPatronus @Morfo66 @raychascotch @KatieMoon1 @Tamba @Jenna0903 @melliotm @PanamaBanana @inventiveOrange1 @HearingYourHeart @TreesandWine @guyb @Sharkradio @MKjart @Lilyflower0817 @caterpillargirl @Survivetoalive @exuberantTriangle2562 @coraline23 @Ivorycat5573 @fearlessPear8268 @SemicolonSurvivor @weare1 @weareall1 @Annaka1 @moonchild95 @summernight69 @sheaintgotnoshoes @rationalWillow8882 @DeborahUK @AMusicalSilence @catsith @energeticPenny8 @Rebekahwriter13 @behindhazeleyes @sensitiveShade5337 @singercrystalspirit @wittyTree8219 @Ocendade @Rpjrx @Brooke12 @tenacity37 @Raveninthelabrynth @Axeman53 @kkSp3nc3 @blissedNblessed @Softforesthsp77 @AriannaPink @sereneSoul23 @promisemehope @IPreferWinter @Zombii @Godborned @Jessica86 @resourcefulPond1641 @Lilibuth12 @Tir @Michelle0608 @The_Final_Chapter @Halogen @BubblegumPuppy68 @ScarletPear1945 @CaloenasNicobarica @Hoxenos @Christine1980 @TheresaWilliams @Compassionatelistener108 @LovelyChantel @Pureriver56 @unassumingSummer6022 @Reedrainshimmer @resourcefulPond1642 @Kuma0187 @NonHoPaura @courageousNorth9872 @NacienteLuz @Waterlily16 @Helpfulsoul64 @TheHoneyDoll @Saif1for1Resilience @butters45 @purpleWest8143 @silverIceCream21 @Dandelionmoon @Bumblebee16 @consciousawakening @Shaiya365 @archerzvy @JJi @CopingwithTrauma @musicheals61 @disneynerd23 @ScarletPear1945 @Longday08 @sittinginahoneymoon @Quietbeach @loyalYard9488 @thatdramaticsoprano @understandingJackfruit9057 @amiableZebra3993 @Waterstreams057 @placidFriend3007 @AndreT @orchard9786 @Myosotis17 @sociableSailboat9634 @Calmlake1999 @emotionalMaple9419 @calmballoon3183 @disneynerd23 @MomRNFNP @Pdanziger @easymap6620 @MoreThanAConqueror18 @candyhaunt @namelessgirl99 @plumLake851 @streamoftears @quixoticRaven @Redhawk6547 @Sk1ttles @Shayc1 @Samdoc99 @Mikathewolfdog @Tacomytaco @stella17 @blinkk @PaperCrane1123 @Equalnotabove @felicia96 @CartoonDarling @Tayboi @Compassion21 @lilblackcat89 @ashes @selfdisciplinedTriangle5384 @amiableSummer3420 @FangsInsanity @Anj0806 @Spoonog @rissadawn @brokenflutterby @g00dwitch @No715 @SpruceRaven @tidyMoon3222 @helpfulHuman4992 @Djs3 @dynamicHemlock1736 @Hope3729 @hardworkingStrawberries3477 @courageousCake401 @humorousBeing8966 @NancySV1 @mysticPhoenix883 @oceanmom @gymnast9460 @Nonbinarywaffle7706 @Tbeth @felixfriend @Chels @8883ef @DaisyLion @forcefulSkies @spotthedot @courteousNorth5140
Childhood Abuse and Maladaptive Daydreaming
Trauma Support / by Amandisa16
Last post
April 9th, 2018
...See more What is Maladaptive Daydreaming? Maladaptive daydreaming is a form of dissociation that normally begins in early childhood. Childhood Abuse from a young age is common in those that experience Maladaptive daydreaming. What starts as imaginative daydreams, after trauma and abuse become full fledged escapist fantasies. Some children who are being abused will use Maladaptive Daydreaming as a form of escape to escape the abuse. Although it is not a medically recognised term, the concept was first coined by Eli Somer, PH.D., in 2002. Studies for Maladaptive Daydreaming have shown that trauma and abuse are major triggers for this excessive form of daydreaming. Also that the majority of M'Ders (Maladaptive Daydreamers) have experienced some kind of childhood trauma or abuse. Maladaptive Daydreaming is a coping mechanism to deal with trauma abuse, loss, stress, and everyday life. M'Ders can become so lost in their own thoughts (fantasy world) that they can forget where they are and that there are people around them. Sometimes they have trouble remembering the drive home and react either verbally or physically to their thoughts.When dealing with stress and anxiety Maladaptive Daydreaming can become a compulsive behaviour. Symptoms *This excessive daydreaming often begins in childhood, after abuse or experiencing a traumatic event *Daydreaming is excessive in a way that it can be compared to an addiction. *Books, movies, music, video games and other media maybe a daydreaming trigger *Laughing out loud or making facial expressions, gestures in reponse to internal narratives. People suffering from this know the difference between daydreaming and reality and do not confuse the two. This makes them distinctly different from psychotics or Schizophrenics *Finding it difficult to control daydreams (staying in the present) *Certain day events trigger daydreams *Repetitive movement while daydreaming are common (but not always present in sufferers), pacing, rocking, spinning, shaking something in their hand. *Some people will lay in bed for hours and neglect basic functions. Why is it considered harmful? It can be considered harmful because of the aspect of Dissociation, "spending hours not being present". Sources/Useful Websites https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-Maladaptive-Daydreaming [https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-Maladaptive-Daydreaming] https://lonewolfmag.com/maladaptive-daydreaming-line-talking-getting-lost-deepest-corners-mind/ [https://lonewolfmag.com/maladaptive-daydreaming-line-talking-getting-lost-deepest-corners-mind/] https://www.medicaldaily.com/maladaptive-daydreaming-what-it-247629 [https://www.medicaldaily.com/maladaptive-daydreaming-what-it-247629] http://www.academia.edu/3842011/From_adaptive_fantasy_to_dissociative_psychopathology_On_forms_of_daydreaming [http://www.academia.edu/3842011/From_adaptive_fantasy_to_dissociative_psychopathology_On_forms_of_daydreaming]
Traumatic Experiences Community Dalily Check-In Wednesday 21st May 2018
Trauma Support / by Amandisa16
Last post
March 23rd, 2018
...See more Hi Trauma Family, hope you are well . Today I want to talk a bit about journeys. I was thinking about my journey into work over the last few weeks. We have had alot of bad weather, sharp winds, snow, even hailstones. This storm was described as "The Beast from the East". My colleague had a better description for it "The pest from the west". As a result of this storm, getting into work was a stressful process for me. A few weeks ago I left for work early, and caught a bus straight away. I soon noticed that there was alot of traffic, and the bus was taking longer than usual. When it dawned on me how late I would be, panic began to set in. Vehicles were at a stand-still moving every five minutes. I looked in front of me and could see a sea of cars, vans, and buses as far as the eye could see! I wished I was on the bus in front. I felt anxious, frustrated, angry and defeated. I took a few breathes, and stopped focusing on the fact that I would not get to work on time. I acknowledged that although I would be late that this storm was not my fault, and that my co-workers would be understanding and supportive. Once I calmed down, I looked out of the window and noticed a building that had probably been there for ages, but I had never noticed it. I realised that the mornings were getting lighter, I had time to think about the things that had happened the previous day. I didn't even notice that the bus had began to move again, I came to a few conclusions; 1) The bus may be moving slowly, but it is still moving. 2 )I was going to be late, but I would stop worrying about it. 3) I would eventually reach my destination, because I was on the right path 4) Although the bus was moving slowly, it had given me a chance to be still, experience some peace, and have a chance to think. So how about you? what's your journery like right now? Are you feeling stuck? or maybe you feel that things are moving too slowly.Or maybe you have passed through these stages, and feel that you have reached your destination. Have their been some benefits or blessings along the way? How is you day going?, this is your space a safe place xxxxx To add or remove your name from daily check-ins click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1TDFMP7KztoMv2a7h6pOlk6Yjd7qO7inR3_RIBR8gvyI/viewform?edit_requested=true] To add or remove your name to our new Trauma Sub Community General tag list to be notified of new threads in the Trauma Sub Community please click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pzC6N19QCxy4LRMJqXKd5L6pyF_pKRY8cfXaZYXb6Nk/edit] @Avaray @Shadeshack @BeeLeigh @Faeryschild @Rain45 @Lavendermoonlight @KLM3278 @jr50 @agreeableKite430 @PhoenixPatronus @Morfo66 @raycascotch @KatieMoon1 @Tamb @Jenna0903 @melliotm @PanamaBanana @inventiveOrange1 @HearingYourHeart @TreesandWine @guytb @Chayil @sharkradio @Mkjart @Lilyflower0817 @caterpillargirl @Survivetoalive@@exuberantTriangle2562 @coraline23 @Ivorycat5573 @fearlessPear8268 @SemicolonSurvivor @weare1 @weareall1@Annaka1 @moonchild95 @summernight69 @sheaintgotnoshoes @rationalWillow8882 @DeborahUK @AMusicalSilence @catsith @energeticPenny8 @Rebekahwriter13 @behindhazeleyes @sensitiveShade5337 @singercrystalspirit @wittyTree8219 @Ocendade @Rpjrx @Brooke12 @tenacity37 @Raveninthelabrynth @Axeman53 @kkSp3nc3 @blissedNblessed @Softforesthsp77@AriannaPink @sereneSoul23 @promisemehope @IPreferWinter @Zombii @Godborned @Jessica86 @resourcefulPond1641 @Lilibuth12 @Tir @Michelle0608 @The_Final_Chapter @Halogen @BubblegumPuppy68 @ScarletPear1945 @CaloenasNicobarica @Hoxenos @Christine1980 @TheresaWilliams @Compassionatelistener108 @LovelyChantel @Pureriver56 @unassumingSummer6022 @Reedrainshimmer @resourcefulPond1642 @Kuma0187 @NonHoPaura @courageousNorth9872 @NacienteLuz @Waterlily16 @Helpfulsoul64 @TheHoneyDoll @Saif1for1Resilience @butters45 @purpleWest8143 @silverIceCream21 @Dandelionmoon @Bumblebee16 @consciousawakening @Shaiya365 @archerzvy @JJi @CopingwithTrauma @musicheals61 @disneynerd23 @ScarletPear1945 @Longday08 @sittinginahoneymoon @Quietbeach @loyalYard9488 @thatdramaticsoprano @understandingJackfruit9057 @amiableZebra3993 @Waterstreams057 @placidFriend3007 @AndreT @orchard9786 @Myosotis17@sociableSailboat9634 @Calmlake1999 @emotionalMaple9419 @calmballoon3183 @disneynerd23 @MomRNFNP @Pdanziger@easymap6620 @MoreThanAConqueror18 @candyhaunt @namelessgirl99 @plumLake851 @streamoftears @quixoticRaven @Redhawk6547@Sk1ttles @Shayc1@Samdoc99 @Mikathewolfdog @Tacomytaco @stella17 @blinkk @PaperCrane1123 @Equalnotabove @felicia96 @CartoonDarling @Tayboi @Compassion21 @lilblackcat89 @ashes @selfdisciplinedTriangle5384 @amiableSummer3420@FangsInsanity @Anj0806 @Spoonog @rissadawn @brokenflutterby @g00dwitch @No715 @SpruceRaven @tidyMoon3222 @helpfulHuman4992 @Djs3 @dynamicHemlockHemlock1736 @Hope3729 @hardworkingStrawberries3477 @courageousCake401 @humorousBeing8966 @NancySV1 @mysticPhoenix883 @oceanmom @gymnast9460 @Nonbinarywaffle7706 @Tbeth @felixfriend @Chels
Traumatic Experiences Community Daily Check-in Wednesday 14 March 2018
Trauma Support / by Amandisa16
Last post
March 17th, 2018
...See more Hi Trauma family hope you are well.. Over the last few days I have been thinking about how important it is for us all to have "a voice". On Sunday I was standing at the bus stop and next to me stood two teenagers, that were communicating through Sign Language. I was mesmerised by their signing, for Sign Language had provided them with a "voice. It reminded me of my own struggle to communicate. From the age of three all the way into my teenage years I suffered with a Communication Disability. Speaking was an every day struggle for me, I wanted my peers to know my views and to reveal my personality. However at times I felt as if someone had put a gag over my mouth! What my peers did not know about me was that I liked to write poetry, read books, write stories. I could Break-Dance, Body Pop and Moon Walk (this was the 80s!) I had an obsession with Michael Jackson and could tell you every song on both the "Off The Wall and Thriller Albums, with the accompanying dance! How do you communicate all this, if you have difficulty speaking? Just because I had difficulty communicating, this did not mean that I did not have anything to say. So now lets think about trauma, has your trauma stopped you from expressing yourself? Is there something that you would like people to know about you? It could be a hobby or an interest, a gift. Maybe you are passionate about a cause, or have an unfulfilled dream in your heart. This is a safe space, the microphone is yours! To add or remove your name from daily check-ins click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1TDFMP7KztoMv2a7h6pOlk6Yjd7qO7inR3_RIBR8gvyI/viewform?edit_requested=true] To add or remove your name to our new Trauma Sub Community General tag list to be notified of new threads in the Trauma Sub Community please click here [https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1pzC6N19QCxy4LRMJqXKd5L6pyF_pKRY8cfXaZYXb6Nk/edit] @Avaray @Shadeshack @BeeLeigh @Faeryschild @Rain45 @Lavendermoonlight @KLM3278 @jr50 @agreeableKite430 @PhoenixPatronus @Morfo66 @raycascotch @KatieMoon1 @Tamb @Jenna0903 @melliotm @PanamaBanana @inventiveOrange1 @HearingYourHeart @TreesandWine @guytb @Chayil @sharkradio @Mkjart @Lilyflower0817 @caterpillargirl @Survivetoalive@@exuberantTriangle2562 @coraline23 @Ivorycat5573 @fearlessPear8268 @SemicolonSurvivor @weare1 @weareall1@Annaka1 @moonchild95 @summernight69 @sheaintgotnoshoes @rationalWillow8882 @DeborahUK @AMusicalSilence @catsith @energeticPenny8 @Rebekahwriter13 @behindhazeleyes @sensitiveShade5337 @singercrystalspirit @wittyTree8219 @Ocendade @Rpjrx @Brooke12 @tenacity37 @Raveninthelabrynth @Axeman53 @kkSp3nc3 @blissedNblessed @Softforesthsp77@AriannaPink @sereneSoul23 @promisemehope @IPreferWinter @Zombii @Godborned @Jessica86 @resourcefulPond1641 @Lilibuth12 @Tir @Michelle0608 @The_Final_Chapter @Halogen @BubblegumPuppy68 @ScarletPear1945 @CaloenasNicobarica @Hoxenos @Christine1980 @TheresaWilliams @Compassionatelistener108 @LovelyChantel @Pureriver56 @unassumingSummer6022 @Reedrainshimmer @resourcefulPond1642 @Kuma0187 @NonHoPaura @courageousNorth9872 @NacienteLuz @Waterlily16 @Helpfulsoul64 @TheHoneyDoll @Saif1for1Resilience @butters45 @purpleWest8143 @silverIceCream21 @Dandelionmoon @Bumblebee16 @consciousawakening @Shaiya365 @archerzvy @JJi @CopingwithTrauma @musicheals61 @disneynerd23 @ScarletPear1945 @Longday08 @sittinginahoneymoon @Quietbeach @loyalYard9488 @thatdramaticsoprano @understandingJackfruit9057 @amiableZebra3993 @Waterstreams057 @placidFriend3007 @AndreT @orchard9786 @Myosotis17@sociableSailboat9634 @Calmlake1999 @emotionalMaple9419 @calmballoon3183 @disneynerd23 @MomRNFNP @Pdanziger@easymap6620 @MoreThanAConqueror18 @candyhaunt @namelessgirl99 @plumLake851 @streamoftears @quixoticRaven @Redhawk6547@Sk1ttles @Shayc1@Samdoc99 @Mikathewolfdog @Tacomytaco @stella17 @blinkk @PaperCrane1123 @Equalnotabove @felicia96 @CartoonDarling @Tayboi @Compassion21 @lilblackcat89 @ashes @selfdisciplinedTriangle5384 @amiableSummer3420@FangsInsanity @Anj0806 @Spoonog @rissadawn @brokenflutterby @g00dwitch @No715 @SpruceRaven @tidyMoon3222 @helpfulHuman4992 @Djs3 @dynamicHemlockHemlock1736 @Hope3729 @hardworkingStrawberries3477 @courageousCake401 @humorousBeing8966 @NancySV1 @mysticPhoenix883 @oceanmom @gymnast9460 @Nonbinarywaffle7706 @Tbeth @felixfriend @Chels
How I broke through Social Anxiety
Anxiety Support / by Amandisa16
Last post
December 18th, 2016
...See more As a child I had a stammer/stutter, stammering is a Communication Disability. This began as soon as I could speak and continued until I was around the age of twelve. Stammering is sometimes viewed by others as something to be mimicked or laughed at, a bit of joke. However, for the person who stammers simple tasks such as answering the phone, going to the shops, getting a job, making friends etc. can be extremely difficult. The constant ridicule, mockery, and humiliation, and endless battle to speak, has left many stammerers with depression, social anxiety and for some resulted in suicide. Stammering makes social interaction difficult. When I was at school I would try and speak, but I physically could not get the words out. So I would try and force these words out, leading to facial contortion and stuttering sounds. This was all done in front of the other children! I was not bullied, but at times teased or mimicked. Luckily I received a lot of help as a Speech Therapist came into my school and I received speech therapy outside of school. Around the age of ten, for some reason my stammering got worse. As usual I was finding it difficult to get words out, but somehow this was different. One day I opened up my mouth and nothing was coming out. So I was taken out of school for six weeks and given intensive Speech Therapy. You are probably thinking what does this have to do with Social Anxiety? (Im getting there). So fast forward to my teenage years, the stammer had gone, but I realized that there was still an anxiety concerning speaking. I can only compare it to being stung by a Bee, the Bee may have flown away, but the sting is still there. The sting was definitely still there, I had an issue with initiating conversations with new people. I would become very anxious and panicky, get palpitations, my breathing would become heavy. The main fear being that I would stammer or say something stupid. I remember one day stepping out and going into a fast food restaurant it was either McDonalds or Kentucky. Normally when I was in these establishments my sister or my friends would order the food. Having to order my first McDonalds Hamburger with Large Fries and a Chocolate Milkshake in front of customers and staff felt quite traumatic. For the sake of time, I have skimmed over my experiences with social anxiety to concentrate on how I broke through it. 1) First I had to establish the root cause of my Social Anxiety, which was the fear of stammering, or saying something stupid. So to combat this anxiety, (which was at its strongest when meeting new people), I would rehearse the questions that I would ask them. The rehearsing of questions prepared me for social situations. It calmed me down, as the anxiety was always about what I would say. So for example the three questions could be: a. Are you local, are you from this area? b. So what do you do? Are you working? Are you studying? c. If they are working or studying you can ask them how their work/studies are going. Or if they are enjoying it If you are speaking to work colleagues: d. So how long have you been working here? e. Have you always worked in this profession/area? f. What do you do when you are not working, do you have any interesting hobbies? I know this does not sound revolutionary! But for me it worked to break the fear of initiating new conversations. I would rehearse those three questions, until they were etched in my memory. Even if I wanted to speak to a teacher about something, I would rehearse first what I would say until I got it right. This seemed to break some of the anxiety, and fear. 2) I also sometimes have a tendency to speak really fast, which means that my mouth sometimes does not reflect what my mind would like to express. There were situations where I spoke so fast that I could not express what I was saying. The result was that afterwards, I would feel really stupid, and wish that I had not said anything at all. So I now speak very slowly and calmly giving my mind time to think, and summarise what I would like to say. 3) When I was receiving Speech Therapy I had to practice breathing exercises, which would help me to calm down. This worked very well with speaking slowly, because when speaking I was panicked. So deep breathing exercises, and speaking slowly, helped me hold a conversation calmly, and helped to reduce my anxiety. 4) Some people are chatterboxes, as soon as you ask them a question they will not stop talking. Whereas others will find it just as difficult to hold conversations as you do. The key is to not blame yourself if the conversation ends early, remembering that it takes two people to hold a conversation. 5) Confront the fear. Whenever I stepped out and confronted the fear of speaking in public, or initiating new conversations, I noticed that the things that I had feared did not materialize. I remember watching a TV programme, where a man was talking about his fear of dogs. As a child he had been bitten by a dog and this attack had traumatised him. His neighbour had a dog in the back garden that barked all day long. Every time he heard this dog bark he would jump, and break out into hot sweats. This man had longed to sit in his garden as it was summer time. He had also hoped to do some gardening, but could not because of the ferocious dog that lived next door. Six months had passed and one day thinking that the dog was in his neighbours house he ventured outside, but all of a sudden he heard the dog growl and he froze. He said at that moment he felt dizzy faint, as if he was about to have a heart attack. He turned to look at this vicious animal that was barking at him, expecting to see a large dangerous dog. Only to find a little Chiwawa (tiny dog as small as a cat) jumping up and down barking at him. The moral of this story is that some of the anxieties that control us, are not fearful Pitballs, but little Chiwawas 6) In my experience, the foundation that Social Anxiety is built upon is The Fear of Man. What will this person think? How will that person react if I do this? The Fear of Man is a prison, that stops individuals doing what they really want to do, and being free. So I worked on breaking the fear, making a decision to stop worrying about what the opinion of others might be if I suddenly tripped over my words etc. Social Anxiety is quite a complex disorder, and we all have our own unique stories. I am sharing my story and some self- help tips, to provide encouragement to those of you who are struggling. I hope it helps at least one of you!
Feedback & Reviews
I love her, she is amazing!
Amandisa is a very compassionate and well educated woman. She is always very professional in alle her interactions in groups, forums, and 1-1's. Amandisa is a most valued assed to The Trauma Support Community and The Cup as a whole.
Well done!
Lovely, compassionate listener
V.patient amd caring. Strong and clear-sighted.
So lovely of her to touch base. She alwsys seens to manage to get back to me very quickly even when she is extremely busy. Wow!
So lovely. Truly compassionate and helped me unravel some things to get to the core of the matter. V. Kind.
Beyond 5 stars in every way. Held a lovely supportive space for me. And was ....providentially.... available to talk with me when I most needed a Listener.
Caring Soul.
Great listenser, I felt good talking to them. ♥
Lovely listener, she was easy to talk to and asked lots of questions. It was a real pleaure to talk to her today :-)
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