My PTSD Story🤍. This is something I've been embarrassed to talk about for a long time but I feel like it's finally time to share my story. Maybe someone out there needs to hear it. I'm also deaf and living with PTSD has affected every part of my life in ways that many people don't see. When I was 19, I was in a car accident on my way to work. Thankfully, it wasn't a serious accident and everyone was okay physically. But mentally, it changed me. I became traumatized and terrified of driving. The anxiety and panic attacks became so overwhelming that I went to see a doctor. I was prescribed anxiety and antidepressant medications and for a few years they helped enough that I could continue driving to work and around my town. But by the time I was 24, everything changed. I couldn't drive anymore not even to work or around town. I stopped driving completely for about a year. Then, at 25, I experienced postpartum depression and everything became even harder. Nothing seemed to work anymore, no matter what I tried. Eventually, I saw another physician who diagnosed me with PTSD. My medications were adjusted and I started seeing a therapist. That was a turning point in my life. I was able to drive again but only short distances. I still couldn't drive to other cities or states. I pushed myself to practice driving within my town and nearby cities to slowly build my confidence. Even, I still avoid driving north to Salt Lake because the traffic is so busy and overwhelming. When someone is with me, I feel much safer behind the wheel. As a mom, one of the hardest parts is that sometimes I don't want my boys riding with me when I'm feeling anxious because I don't want them to be scared if I panic. When we have to travel farther, they often ride with my mom instead. I'm 34 now and will be turning 35 this year. I finally decided I couldn't keep living with this fear. I wanted to find another path because I want to be able to drive without constant anxiety and panic. After talking with my healthcare providers, I decided to stop my antidepressant medication and try peptides. For me personally, this experience has felt different and I've started feeling more like myself again. I know everyone's journey is different but this has been my experience. I was so embarrassed to tell this story but I've realized that someone else might be going through the same thing. If sharing my journey helps even one person feel less alone, then it's worth it. Please don't give up. Healing isn't always a straight path, but keep believing in yourself. One step at a time. And thank you to my angel sister for always sitting beside me, encouraging me and helping me feel safe while I drive. Your support has meant everything to me. 🤍🤟🏼 And thank you to my Tesla for giving me extra peace of mind with its safety features. Every little bit of confidence helps.🩶 #ptsd #ptsdsurvivor #ptsdsupport #deafmom #deaftiktok - @erica354798