How to handle flashbacks

[Ophelia501]

I was in an abusive relationship with an NP for 5 years. I got out about a year ago and, with the help of therapy and friends, have been able to go no contact for the last 6 months.

About 3 months ago I started having intense nightmares and flashbacks, which have caused me to remember things I thought I had suppressed. I've tried medication and I attend therapy, but it hasn't helped much. Last week a conversation triggered one of the worst memories and now everytime I close my eyes it's like I see and feel it happening all over again.

I felt like I was making so much progress moving forward and now it's like I'm backsliding to the point that it's affecting my job.

Is it normal to have this happen even after a year of being out of the relationship? How does everyone else handle nightmares/flashbacks?

[notrightinthehead]

Welcome!
As for your question - I am three years out and I still have them every time I get news about him or a letter from his lawyer.  The good bit,  they used to throw me back for weeks in the beginning, then for days, now it's only a few hours.  I used mindfulness a lot,  and guided meditations.  The book 'Radical Acceptance' helped me a lot too,  I learned to allow the unpleasant feelings,  accept them and let them wash through me.
Good luck to you!

[Hattie]

You might need specific therapy for CPTSD. A lot of therapists aren't trained to handle that.

You could also try the sister forum, Out of the Storm, which is specifically for that. It doesn't get as much traffic as this site, but has some helpful stuff on there