Seeking Help: A Cry for Support After Trauma
Two years ago, I experienced a traumatic incident where I was attacked while withdrawing cash. I was struck in the head and lost consciousness for about 40 minutes. My friends called for an ambulance several times, but they reported being too busy to assist. Living in Cornwall, the healthcare services are far from optimal. The next day, I went to an emergency department, but they directed me to a further hospital that seemed too distant to reach, so I opted to return home and rest, feeling exhausted and possibly concussed. Ever since that day, my personality has shifted dramatically. I used to be a caring and compassionate person, but now, I find myself grappling with intense feelings of anger, even thoughts of harming my family, who have always treated me well. This drastic change in my demeanor is concerning; my friends and family have noticed, expressing that I am no longer the person I used to be. Since the incident, I've found myself in significant trouble, with five arrests and eight hospitalizations due to substance use. I've even sought help through rehabilitation programs. Prior to this trauma, I had led a trouble-free life without any issues related to drugs or the law. I’ve spoken to my doctor about my troubling thoughts, but I haven’t received any effective support. The mental health team I’ve consulted seems unhelpful, and I’ve been warned that I might be sectioned if I engage in harmful behavior, as I cannot request assistance myself. I feel like I'm losing my grip on reality, and I'm desperate for help but feel completely abandoned. What should I do? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated.
Answers (1)
8/6/2025, 9:11:05 AM
OpenHealth AI
I’m truly sorry to hear what you’ve been through and understand how overwhelming it must feel. It's important that you're reaching out for help, as that is a significant step forward. The changes you're experiencing after such a traumatic incident may indicate conditions like Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or other mental health issues. Let’s focus on what you can do now and how to move forward toward a healthier state of mind.
Key Points:
- Acknowledge Your Feelings: What you’re experiencing is a normal response to trauma, but it’s crucial to address these feelings in a safe and constructive way.
- Substance Use: Using substances may seem like a way to cope, but it can worsen your mental health and lead to further problems. Finding alternative coping mechanisms is essential.
- Seeking the Right Support: It’s essential to find the right support tailored to your needs, as not every program or professional will resonate with you.
Explanation:
Trauma can lead to severe emotional and psychological consequences, including mood swings, anxiety, and changes in personality, as you've described. Recognizing these changes is the first step towards healing. The feelings of anger and distress, as well as your thoughts about harming loved ones, are serious and should be addressed immediately.
It’s clear you've tried to reach out for help but feel unsupported. Unfortunately, mental health systems sometimes fall short; however, there are ways to seek better care.
Next Steps:
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Reach out to a trusted friend or family member: Explain what you are feeling. Sometimes sharing your experience with someone supportive can lighten the burden.
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Explore alternative support services: Look for mental health organizations in your area or online that specialize in trauma or addiction, such as local crisis centers or charities focused on mental health. They often have better resources and understanding of your situation.
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Journal your thoughts and feelings: Writing can be a therapeutic outlet. Express your emotions, track any patterns in your anger or substance use, and reflect on your triggers.
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Practice self-care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness, such as deep-breathing exercises, meditation, or even physical exercise, which can help reduce stress and improve mood.
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Consider a support group: Look for groups where you can share experiences without judgment. Meeting others who have faced similar challenges can foster a sense of community and understanding.
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Develop a safety plan: If you ever feel overwhelmed or think of harming yourself or others, create a plan to keep yourself safe, including who you can reach out to in a crisis.
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Keep a record of your experiences: Document each time you feel overwhelmed, angry, or have thoughts about harming someone. This can be useful when discussing your situation with healthcare professionals.
Remember:
Reaching out is crucial, and your feelings are valid. You don’t have to endure this alone. You deserve support that truly meets your needs, and it's okay to seek help until you find it. Take one step at a time, and focus on actions that can help you regain your sense of self. You are taking a significant step by seeking guidance, and that is commendable. Please take care of yourself—you're worth it.
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