i am starting a new therapy on tuesday and i am very nervous. its EMDR therapy for my ptsd but i do belive it will help. if anyone knows ways to cope with the anxiety i feel plz let me know.
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Hi, Ryan. I’m Lan. I’ve been browsing this community since the start of my recovery and I’ve decided to put my thoughts out to hopefully help you.
I am a big follower of Stoic philosophy, and I had to break out one of my books to find this quote - I didn’t want to butcher it. The quote below is from Meditations, by King Marcus Aurelius.
“Do not let the future trouble you. You will come to it (if that is what you must) possessed of the same reason that you apply to yourself in the present.”
To me, you have demonstrated a desire to seek help with your PTSD, and I am very proud of you for that. But you also state that you know it will help you. I’m not familiar with this process but I am a firm believer that life is a self fulfilling prophecy, and if you continue to go into the situation thinking - or knowing - that it will help, that very well make you more susceptible to healing.
Try to not be anxious about the things that you cannot control, only try to focus on your reactions to these things with a clear head and steady breaths.
Congratulations on 5 days. It may not seem like much, but the most important step you can take is always the next one.
Good luck, Ryan. I know you’ve got it in you.
- Lan
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Hey Ryan
I had started EMDR right before COVID hit and did not get to complete my sessions. I have heard great things and understand it is very helpful in unlocking our blockages.
For the anxiety I would suggest creating a safe space. My therapist had me close my eyes- take a deep breath and envision a space that I felt safest. I had to incorporate all my senses. It actually worked for me. I picked a beach and could hear the waves crashing, feel the same in my toes, taste and smell the salty air, see the horizon. I would go here anytime I felt anxious.
Deep breathing, meditation have also worked for me. Wishing you luck with your sessions 