TMI AND TMJ

Believe me, I have been one of those people who roll my eyes when someone shares too much information (TMI). But I need to share the following because I think trauma is something most people experience. If the trauma is severe enough, it can often trigger physiological problems making day to day functioning an uphill battle. This is when it may be necessary to get help from a licensed therapist. There should be no hesitancy in seeking professional help. Personally, I strongly believe in cognitive behavioral therapy. Throughout my life, beginning at the age of 27, I have used therapy to get me through rough patches. Back in 2014, when I was diagnosed with PTSD, therapy helped me manage the dibilitating anxiety and the sudden onset of panic attacks. Today I was diagnosed with TMJ which is causing jaw and ear pain. My family physician says this could be related to stress and recommended that I consider therapy if it continues to be problematic. In doing some research I learned that "the cause of TMJ disorder isn't always known, but research has shown a strong link between PTSD and temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJ). Someone with PTSD is operating in a constant “fight or flight” mode. They anticipate danger at every turn, and their body responds accordingly." I have been living in this "flight or fight" mode for almost two years constantly waiting for the other shoe to drop. Well, the other shoe dropped, and now I am dealing with the fallout and the stress. If the stress and TMJ do not soon dissipate, I most certainly will return to therapy. And there is no shame in that. Therapy is certainly better than suffering in silence or self-medicating with drugs and alcohol. TMI, maybe, but I'm sharing this as a message of hope to whomever needs it.  If trauma has made you sick,  get therapy and get relief. Your family doctor can help you locate a licensed therapist.