(C)PTST

I believe I am hypervigilent, scanning looking trying to listen and avoid conflict and readily shut down. I think the missing social cues, body language etc and difficulty with conversations which would be from the autism I guess maybe leads to problems/misunderstandimgs that I then cant cope with or cant do what others would do and shut down which I guess is frustrating for people.

Thanks. I wonder if it may have helped mould the person I am, which is apparently wrong. I just dont know.

Thank you for replying . It makes sense from what I've seen. Besides that theres stuff going on that leads me to doubt whats what.

Unsure said:

Is looking into the possibility of PTSD that has accumalated over events over the years looking for an excuse?

Very unlikely.

Unsure said:

Are there benefits to looking into it?

Yes. I think it's helpful to explore these things and us autistic folk have already been through at least one round of such exploration to find answers. I have been told I am very likely to have C-PTSD from childhood bullying and traditional/harsh discipline at home, which explains my hypervigilance.

I have it and whilst it may not make everything better, being able to name whats happening to you does help. It also helps when trying to unravel things in your mind whether on your own or with a therapist. It's also helpful to be able to tell others in some situations, especially professionals such as in my case dentists, having to lie still whilst someone pokes about inside me often painfully can really set me off, as can having people looming over me when I come out of anesthesia. It just provides a shorthand they can understand and gives you an opportunity to say what you do and don't like and how you wish to be treated.

Dear Unsure,

It can be really helpful to seeking a diagnosis of PTSD, and I am really sorry that you have been struggling with past experiences. I don't believe looking for diagnosis is looking for an excuse. It is seeking help and support, which is a very brave and responsible decision.

Hopefully some of our online community can share some of their experiences but I have also shared some links below that might be worth taking a look at:
Post-traumatic stress disorder - this is some of NAS advice and guidance on PTSD. There are some helpful links to autistic people's lived experiences of PTSD

PTSD UK -this is the UK's leading charity on PTSD and thought they may have some useful information for you to take a look at. 

Seeking help with mental health - NAS guidance on how to go about seeking support for mental health problems.

Please reach out if you need any further support.

Wishing you well,

Olivia Mod