Flashbacks

@ThatBoiSam

I am very sorry for all you went through.

As a fast response, I suggest you try these "grounding" techniques HERE

Also that you study thoroughly the 7 Cups Guide on "Traumatic Experiences" HERE

And in second term, the self-help guide on ACT Therapy HERE

I hope you get better soon.

Keep participating in this Community !

I wish you all the best,

Marcelo.

Dear @ThatBoiSam

Sorry to hear of your experience. I wish I could tell you how to stop your flashbacks but each person will find their own way. However, I can relate.

I was sexually abused by my church band teacher from about 13 - 15. While I ram ember it now I had blocked it out till I was in my early 20s. When one day during sex with a girlfriend she did something which triggered the memories and suddenly it was like she was him, I could see, smell, hear him. After that I was hounded with flash backs. As real as the times it happened.

I had trouble sleeping and became quite anxious and depressed. I started self medicating on sleeping pills. That didn't really work.

What worked for me was telling my story to anyone who'd listen - that I trusted. I started going to counseling and attending a male urvivor of CSA group. I even got brave enough to have my story published in a mainstream newspaper and appeared on a couple of TV programs.

Over time, with a lot of support from friends and counsellors, the flashbacks became less real, and no longer transported me back to the emotions, feelings, sensations etc of the time of the abuse. I still get passing memories that intrude my mind but I've learned how to manage them with techniques like Accpetance and Commitmet Therapy which essentially enables me to acknowledge they come but, but given them no power and don't hook into them and they pass quickly with little more than a minor annoyance.

I'm not sure if my story helps, but I'm here for you if ever you need to talk.