What to tell people

Please could I have some advice.
I suffer from Complex Post Traumatic Stress as a result of being married to a Narcist/emotional abuser. I am unable to work due to the stress as I am to "vulnerable".

I would like to know what to say to people when they ask me my employment status. People are still very sensitive to mental health issues and I do not want to scare them away but I would also like to be truthful.

You should say what ever you feel comfortable saying. If they are not comfortable hearing it, that''s their problem not yours.
I''m afraid I can''t relate to mental health problems but I have children with hidden disabilities and people put their foot in it all the time... I am happy to explain, and some feel very uncomfortable and make a quick exit but some show genuine interest. I hope the ones that run a mile, just need time to process the information and go away and educate themselves. People''s attitude towards mental health or disability will only change if it is talked about and not swept under the carpet.

Thanks for your answer.
I am comfortable to simply state the truth, but everyone seems extremly troubled by it, which does not help my trauma. Think I am still in desperate need to be accepted for who I am!

Hi
I too have been diagnosed with PTSD from being married and going through a 7 yr divorce with a Narcissist. I know how difficult it is just to function on a daily basis. You really need to heal. I belong to two online support groups and they have helped me more than any counselling could. You can get support from other individuals that are going through the same thing.
If you PM me I can give the details.
Don''t worry what people think just concentrate on getting well.

I would say "it depends".

Some will love to trade information about you. Some will be empathetic and want to reach out and be supportive. So I would say just use some common sense. There is no need to lie. Just need to not tell all to all and sundry.


Most important though is not be defined by what happened to you. Concentrate on getting past this so that one day you will be free of what happened to you. That will be the best outcome for you. Marshy.

Due to being emotionally abused if I had a want, need, opinion, or feelings, I panic and suffer anxiety if asked about working. I cannot use my common sense because I do not know how the person will react and trauma occurs. I question everything that might crop up in conversation when socialising so that I can answer without the fear of upsetting them.
I know I am trying to stop abuse before it occurs as I know I cant handle it.
Awaiting CAT so hopefully be out of this terrifying state of mind soon.