What to say to someone with PTSD?

[salto]

What's the most helpful and comforting someone has said to you?
What do you wish someone had said to you in different situations?

I'm writing an article and would love some help!

http://ptsdsafe.com/what-to-say-to-someone-with-ptsd/

Thanks buddies!

[salto]

Welcome replies both here and on the blog itself

[Kizzie]

Just want to point out (and kindly so), that Complex PTSD is different than PTSD in that it is the result of ongoing relational trauma vs single/short term non-relational trauma, and has three additional symptoms.  From a treatment perspective it's important to make the distinction, but also so that people understand what survivors are dealing with (layers of abuse/neglect at the hands of others).

The most comforting thing anyone could say to me me "I am so sorry for what you've endured and continue to struggle with, what can I do to help?"

[Not Alone]

Most helpful:
"I am so sorry for what you went through. I am here for you."
"I believe you."
If I tell someone some details of what I am feeling, it does help me when they repeat back to me. Eg. Me: "I feel like I'm drowning. I am going crazy." Friend: "You feel like you're drowning and that you're crazy. That sounds awful and scary."

[salto]

"I am so sorry for what you went through. I am here for you."
"I believe you."

and the mirroring thing, that's golden! I'll add that to the article! Thanks!

[Three Roses]

Most helpful - "I'm so sorry that happened to you!"

Other comments that have helped, either made to me or that I've read, are "CPTSD is not an illness, it's an injury" and "Our symptoms are normal reactions to abnormal circumstances". Probably not the type you're looking for but thought I'd throw them in there anyway.

[mikenoodle]

Things that have made me feel (even slightly) better:

It's okay. or  It's going to be okay.
It's not your fault.
That IS messed up.
You didn't deserve this.
I love you
you deserve to be loved too
I've got this for you
I've got your back