Have you ever been overwhelmed by intense emotions that seem to come from nowhere? Found yourself feeling small and vulnerable in otherwise normal situations? Or perhaps you've experienced moments where your emotional response feels much bigger than the situation warrants? As an online counsellor working with clients in the Reading area, I've seen how emotional flashbacks can be one of the most confusing and distressing symptoms of Complex PTSD.
What Are Emotional Flashbacks?
Unlike traditional PTSD flashbacks, which often involve vivid memories, emotional flashbacks transport you back to the feelings of past trauma without clear memories. You might suddenly feel the same fear, shame, or helplessness you experienced in childhood, without understanding why.
Understanding Your Triggers
Emotional flashbacks often occur in response to triggers that remind us of past trauma, even if we're not consciously aware of the connection. These might include feeling criticised or judged, relationship conflicts, stress at work, feeling trapped or powerless, or certain tones of voice or expressions that unconsciously remind us of past experiences.
Impact on Daily Life
These flashbacks can significantly affect your relationships, work, and self-esteem. Many people find themselves avoiding certain situations or struggling to maintain connections with others. The intense emotions can feel overwhelming and unpredictable, making it difficult to trust yourself or others.
Recognising When You're in a Flashback
Understanding the signs can help you manage these experiences better. During an emotional flashback, you might feel suddenly young and vulnerable, experience intense shame or fear, have difficulty staying present, notice physical symptoms like tension or nausea, or feel a strong urge to hide or run away.
Managing Emotional Flashbacks
Recognition is the first step. Understanding that you're experiencing an emotional flashback, rather than responding to the present moment, can help you begin to manage these experiences. This might involve developing grounding techniques, learning self-soothing strategies, and working with a professional who understands Complex PTSD.
As a counsellor specialising in Complex PTSD, I've helped many clients understand and work through their emotional flashbacks. If you recognise these experiences in your own life and want support in managing them, I'm here to help.
Don't hesitate to reach out and schedule a session. Together, we can work on understanding your emotional flashbacks, identifying your triggers, and developing strategies for staying grounded when they occur. Your journey toward healing starts with understanding these important experiences and finding the right support.