New member

[Jeffli]

Hi, everyone.
I've been a lurker here for awhile but decided to register and introduce myself.
You can call me Jeff, and I'm a survivor of childhood-onset C-PTSD.
I'm glad to have found a place with others who understand the day to day struggle!

[Kizzie]

Hi and a warm welcome to OOTS Jeff    If you've been lurking for a while you'll know members here are welcoming and supportive and do relate to the day-to-day struggles of CPTSD.

[Papa Coco]

Hi Jeff,

Welcome to the forum. I'm glad you decided to move forward from lurking to participating. I look forward to hearing more about you and your story.

The greatest damage done to so many of us was that we were intentionally made to feel isolated, like we were the only person alive who didn't deserve to be here on this earth.  The truth, in my opinion, is that we are the kind of people who care more deeply about life and about others. The reason we were prone to PTSD is because we have nurturing spirits. We took in what was dished out to us by unkind parents, schools, religions, etc. And the one thing we give each other on this forum is the one thing many of us need the most: Friends who have walked a mile in our shoes. Validation for each other that proves that we really are good people in a difficult world.

There is a great deal of healing that comes from being able to share our stories. That healing is in finding out that we weren't the only person being treated like we were treated. We are good people who were treated badly, and we didn't become bad ourselves. We became hurt and protective. In many cases, we protect others with more ferocity than we protect ourselves.

I'm glad you joined. I hope to read more from you as you feel more comfortable to share. Go at your own pace. Don't rush it. But as you share at a comfortable pace, I hope we are able to help you feel more and more safe and validated. We are kind people here on this forum. I hope this forum becomes a safe place for you as it has for me.

[Not Alone]

A warm welcome, Jeff. 

[NarcKiddo]

Welcome, Jeff.

It can be very scary to share things with others. Even on an anonymous platform. Well done for taking the first step and saying "hello". 

[Blueberry]

Hi Jeff,

Welcome to the forum