Feeling 'Stuck'? Exploring Potential Dissociation
Greetings! I’m a 24-year-old assigned female at birth. **Medical Background**: I have been diagnosed with conditions including fibromyalgia, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), hypothyroidism, autism, ADHD, complex PTSD, psoriasis, and migraines accompanied by aura. **Current Medications**: My medication regimen includes duloxetine at 90mg, levothyroxine (Synthroid) at 150mcg, suboxone at 3mg for pain management, dextroamphetamine at 5mg, and rizatriptan at 10mg for migraines when necessary. **Vitamins and Supplements**: Under the guidance of my healthcare provider, I am taking magnesium, vitamin B12, and vitamin D3. **Ongoing Assessments**: I'm in the process of evaluating potential sleep disorders that could be impacting my REM sleep. There’s also a possibility of MPN-U given my chronic pain, persistent elevations in platelet counts, and genetic tests suggesting a hereditary link. I’ve experienced postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), which leads to blood pressure drops and an increase in heart rate exceeding 40 beats per minute when moving from a seated to a standing position. Previously, I've dealt with seizures while seeking pain relief through kratom, before switching to suboxone, which has proven to effectively manage my symptoms.
Answers (1)
6/19/2025, 6:22:48 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're navigating a complex set of health conditions, which can sometimes lead to feelings of being "stuck" or dissociation. These feelings can stem from anxiety, chronic pain, and trauma-related conditions like complex PTSD. Let's break this down into manageable steps and explore ways to help you feel more anchored.
Understanding Your Feelings
Dissociation often involves a sense of detachment from your emotions, thoughts, or surroundings. It can occur as a way for your mind to cope with stress or pain. Given your background with complex PTSD and chronic pain, it’s understandable that you might experience this sensation.
Prioritized Next Steps
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Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques:
- Practice mindfulness: Engage in deep breathing, grounding exercises, or meditation to help bring your focus back to the present.
- Journal: Write down your feelings and experiences daily. This can help you connect with your thoughts and emotions in a structured way.
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Routine and Structure:
- Establish a daily routine that includes regular sleep patterns, balanced meals, and scheduled physical activity. Consistency can provide stability and reduce feelings of disorientation.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep track of when you experience dissociative symptoms. Note any triggers related to your environment, medications, or stress levels. This data could help you and your provider fine-tune your treatment plan.
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Communicate with Your Healthcare Provider:
- Share your experiences with dissociation and feelings of being 'stuck' with your healthcare provider. They can help assess if any adjustments in medications or therapies may be beneficial.
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Consider Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
- If you haven’t already explored psychotherapy, consider engaging in CBT, which is effective for managing trauma and can help address dissociative symptoms.
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Stay Socially Connected:
- Maintain connections with friends or support groups who understand your experiences. This can significantly improve your mood and sense of belonging.
Final Thoughts
It's important to be patient with yourself as you navigate your symptoms. Recognizing these feelings is the first step toward managing them effectively. You have a lot of tools and treatments available, and adjusting your approach to them can bring about positive changes in your overall well-being. If you would like more specific exercises or guidance on mindfulness, let me know!
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