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    • #147034
      Stuck in The mud
      Participant

      It’s been a while since my abuser lived with me , is it normal for me to keep feeling so tired ? My friend said it’s because I lived on edge for many years never knowing when I would and I now feel safe and can allow myself to react ?
      Anyone else had it?

    • #147037
      Weemebreeze
      Participant

      Hi Stuck in the mud,

      I can relate to this very much ! I left just over a year ago but I feel utterly exhausted. I just thought to myself that I’d like to press “pause” for about six months to charge my batteries! I think this feeling is so natural though – we were living in fight or flight mode for so long and had every ounce of energy sucked out of us. One day at a time, step by step, I think we’ll get our energy back. The important thing is to be kind and patient with yourself – allow yourself time to recover . ❤️

    • #147039
      Stuck in The mud
      Participant

      Hi I’m glad it’s not just me , I think back how I was and the stress kept me busy 24/7 now a year on I don’t have that stress to act on , sometimes I want that energy I had but it wasn’t real or healthy it was survival mode x I can allow myself a nap now , it’s so not what I’m used to I’m questioning if it’s part of recovery, it seems part of the process if you have it too x

    • #147042
      Weemebreeze
      Participant

      You’ve described how it was for me too – if I’m totally honest, without the stress and drama, life can feel a bit “empty” but the most important thing to remember is that we’re safe . That stress that we were used to was so unhealthy and damaging and not sustainable, I think that’s why we’re so tired. It does get better though, just takes time

    • #147044
      Bananaboat
      Participant

      This is good to read, I’m only a couple of months out but I still struggle to relax, struggle to focus especially at work (as if I’m waiting for something to happen), and my brain is still processing memories which is exhausting.

      • #147046
        Twisted Sister
        Participant

        yes, I think your bit that you’re in right now is living the brain patterns and anxiety you learnt with him, still on edge, waiting for someone to jump out at you round any corner, this bit will start to calm down as you start to really see the calm around you, your space for you. You can’t undo all the abuse in one go, bit by bit.

    • #147047
      Twisted Sister
      Participant

      like another says, it depletes your battery. Takes time to recharge. It takes as long as it takes for you, so be patient and go easy on yourself, doing things you enjoy as much as possible, which helps to rebuild your energy.

      warmest wishes

      ts

    • #147069
      Stuck in The mud
      Participant

      Bananaboat …it’s a rollercoaster it will feel like that for quite a long time just waiting for something to happen because it always did ! when you finally realise it’s over you feel calm like never before and can learn to relax , the years of emotional exhaustion do take a toll and the recovery is ongoing but the relief and happiness you gain is immense.We’ve all been where you are enjoy the freedom and normality but also expect occasional dips x

    • #147412
      driedflowers
      Participant

      Hi Stuck in the mud,

      Yes, I think this is very normal (or, at least, it is what happened to me).

      One thing I would say is that you get used to neglecting your health in these situations, so it would be a good idea to check that there isn’t anything else going on, such as an iron deficiency. Otherwise, though, I think it’s just your body finally resting after so much time being on alert. One thing I have found is that it’s important to pay more attention to your energy afterwards. For example, if something triggers you, you need to make sure that you rest. The other things are diet and exercise, which again, you get used to neglecting. I read somewhere that certain foods like fish can help rebuild your brain’s neurological pathways after trauma. Time will help but you can also try some other things like acupuncture, yoga, etc. Taking care of myself helped me to feel more energized. It reminds you to trust yourself again, and that you are worthy of care-taking.

    • #147414
      Anonymous
      Inactive

      Yes, you might be developing chronic fatigue your amygdala and limbic system have been working overtime, I’ve known a few people to develop it after continuous trauma (though I would get your symptoms checked out with a dr also) I ended up with chronic fatigue (and fibromyalgia) through all the abuses, or could be just the down time of healing after it all (either way it’s good to cover all bases) tired could be a sign of depression also (it makes sense after everything) or could be just the calm after everything you’ve been through, either way I’m glad managed to break free and stay free from your abuser 🥂🤗🤗

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