Traumatic Experiences Community Daily Check-in: Thursday, January 3rd
Hello, Trauma Family. It's Thursday and I want to know how you are all doing. Please let me know of any ups and any downs. Let us know if you need any extra support.
I would like to add while I have you here, that an animal companion can be very good for you as you recover from your trauma. If you currently see a professional, try asking about the potential benefits a emotional support animal or even just a pet might give you. Also, if you have a pet, and feel comfortable sharing, tell us about your experience! We would also love to see their fluffy faces!
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@SouthernFlame heyy there flame how are you
@CaringBrit
Hey! I am good. How about you?
@SouthernFlame im good im back from self care break so will be leading my discussions again i wish to do an open chat on the 20th though but need a colead for that day 2pm ET sunday
@CaringBrit
welcome back!
@SouthernFlame thanks
@SouthernFlame
I had a pet. She was my emotional support animal, but when I spent most of the year homeless I eventually had to do what was best for her, which was not living in a car. I miss her every day but I know I did the right thing. The argument with my dad about my dog is what brought all of my PTSD to the surface.
Pets are wonderful! My cat stands at my bedside waiting for me to wake up in the morning, she patiently waits for any movement from my blankets and stares into my face until my eyes open. So, the first thing I have to do is open a can of cat food and the smell of turkey and giblets isn't that pleasant of a wake up call. My coffee comes second to her
I have been having long episodes of being stuck in flashbacks, time seems to stand still.
@SouthernFlame
not good today
@ReallyRuth
hugs. We are here for you
@SouthernFlame
Not feeling good
@ReallyRuth
Sending more hugs
Want to let you all know Im considering focusing on trauma in grad school.
@SouthernFlame
That's awesome!
@emotionalMaple9419
^.^
@SouthernFlame
I feel like I have gained a new family member with this news!
@emotionalMaple9419
we are family.
@SouthernFlame
My dog is not an ESA, but she could be. I spent the year prior to adopting her barely able to peel myself off the couch. I worked from home, so there was little motivation to leave the house back then.
Then my husband and I went to the pet store one day and he found a dog he wanted. Since I worked from home, most of the puppy care and training fell to me. To my surprise, I enjoyed taking care of our dog. I began taking her on walks every day. I joined a dog training class and began getting out a lot more often. I'm pretty sure she single handedly lifted my depression by just existing.
We went through the whole training program for my dog and qualified to test for her Canine Good Citizen certificate. We never went through with the test, but the training itself was a life saver for me. I've never sought to have her declared an ESA as it hasn't been necessary. I've not often encountered a situation where I needed my dog and she was barred from staying with me. I'm lucky that I live in a region where dogs are nearly elevated to the level of "Sacred Animal" and am able to keep my dog with me in most circumstances.
I highly recommend getting an animal if you think it will help. I'm eternally grateful for my dog.
Hi. I'm not sure why I feel the wayI do. I feel like nothing matters.
@RedHawk6547
Youre not alone. Sometimes I feel that way too. We are glad you are here.