How to deal with PTSD flashbacks? TW for SA, alcohol

Okay so I’ll give a brief explanation. My uncle sexually abused me for about 5 years, unfortunately he still is in the picture, although he has not touched me in about 3 years. He is an alcoholic who would drink and then abuse me.

Today he showed up drunk. He went to the bathroom and was so drunk he walked out of the bathroom without any pants.

I saw it and the last time I saw him with no pants was not a particularly good memory and I just cannot stop remembering

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That’s awful, I’m so sorry you experienced that today.

I haven’t been through exactly what you’ve been through so to be honest I am speaking just from my compassion; I don’t have personal experience I’m drawing from here but if I can help I’ll try.

First I’d say you should get to a place you feel safe. You know where those places are I hope; if you can get to one that will help.

Second, consider calling or texting the National Sexual Assault Telephone Helpline (scroll down a bit if you want to chat/text, you’ll see it):

https://www.rainn.org/

It helps to have someone to talk to, someone who knows what they’re talking about.

Beyond that I’d say seek helpful support and go to it. RAINN (the link above) is an excellent org for this kind of support - that’s their whole mission. Getting support and using it will help you move through this; if you bury it, it will pop up later - and it might be another unwelcome surprise.

Take care and don’t give up. Keep in touch and stay determined. You can do this.

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I’ve known about RAINN for a long time yet I never considered that for some reason. I’ll definitely reach out once I’m home. I don’t really have anywhere I feel safe but I’m heading home which is objectively safer because it’s away from him. Thank you. I have a feeling I’ll be using RAINN a lot from now on. Thank you

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Oh absolutely. RAINN stands for “ Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network”, which definitely applies in this case. I have no doubt you’ll find them helpful. :innocent:

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I’m so sorry you have gone through all of this. My family background includes some experiences with this. I hope you make the call to RAINN and get some support.

Being triggered like this is very hard. I hope you feel safer at home and can stay away from him.

You are on my mind. Keep safe.

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Thank you. I will

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I understand. I am so very sorry you have to be around them. Please take care of yourself and keep checking in. :heart:

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I will thank you :heart:

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