I read somewhere that people with trauma try to downplay the trauma, saying it's not as bad as what others have gone through. The way my brain shies away from verbalizing the details of losing my beloved, I think it's time to accept that yes, it was traumatic. Stupid, stiff-necked Puritan ancestry, trying to tough it out through everything.
There's a lot of evidence now that trauma changes your brain chemistry. And when it happens to you young, it can change your brain structure. In the book I read on the history of psychiatry the author said this discovery was one of the three biggest changes in the field during his lifetime. (The other two big fundamental changes were developing anti-depressants and MRIs that showed how the brain actually works.)
In any event, the effects of trauma are physiological: [link]
Sorry, Puritans.
sarameg, sorry about your uncle. How's your mom feeling?
Feeling quiet this morning but wide awake. It was hella windy yesterday but is calm this morning.
I think I just had a little breakthrough about where all that irrational free floating anxiety comes from
That is something. Now I hope you can get to where you can find a spot to toss those feelings, like a virtual 'family anxiety' lock box.
There's a lot of evidence now that trauma changes your brain chemistry.
My general reaction when I read about results of investigations is generally in the 'no shit Sherlock' range. On the article Hec linked this stuck out to me.
The most significant neurological impact of trauma is seen in the hippocampus. PTSD patients show a considerable reduction in the volume of the hippocampus. This region of the brain is responsible for memory functions.
I've joked forever about my pathetic memory. The most recent example is the 'concert list' thing going on in FB land. I have managed to find FIVE concerts in my memory banks. This is absurd since I worked in radio for years and we sponsored concerts. Also living 63 years and loving music, I know I have been to plenty of concerts, but I just can't reach the memory.
On the other hand, I am extraordinarily organized and have wonderful calendars and lists. My work knowledge base is fabulous. I may not remember, but I generally can find the info.
There's a show on PBS this Sunday, a Dickens mash-up called Dickensian.
It's on Netflix in Canada.
On the other hand, I am extraordinarily organized and have wonderful calendars and lists. My work knowledge base is fabulous. I may not remember, but I generally can find the info.
I used to have a crack memory, which I relied on to keep me organized and on time. Now, I'm a mess with no organizational skills.
Yes, Sue. DH had an amazing memory that impressed me so much in college. Never studied, the jerk, because if he heard it in class or read it ONCE it was there forever. Now apparently his memory banks are full and it is tremendously frustrating to him because writing things down just doesn't come naturally.
Man, I'm glad I'm not the only one who forgets stuff that used to be easy.
Why is it even when I wait until 7:29, I'm still the second person to sign on to a 7:30 meeting? What if I have to make awkward conversation?
Oh, and of course I'm the only English speaker in the room, so they all have to speak English for me.
Oh, and of course I'm the only English speaker in the room, so they all have to speak English for me.
This happens so often to me! A number of my medical offices are Spanish speaking. As I wind my way through the offices the language changes to English as I pass through the room then changes back as I depart. Note to self for the billionth time: learn Spanish.
I'm sorry about your uncle, sarameg.
Today I get to present on one of the learning technologies I support. It's fun, but I have to remember that "and here's the thing--isn't the thing cool?" isn't an appropriate presentation technique. (Even though the thing really is kinda cool.)
April 28th--I hope the snow has melted off the roads by now. It was snarling traffic earlier.
