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Trauma And Anxiety

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Oak Park, CA

I was wondering how many of you believe fibromyalgia was primarily triggered by trauma or anxiety disorder? I know I have had many episodes of trauma in my life, and the real ringer was after teaching inner city students in Chicago. Saw, heard, and was the victim of many forms of emotional, mental, and even physical abuse while there. I still have nocturnal panic attacks involving many of those episodes. Looking into getting help for PTSD now. Thanks.

February 13, 2019 (edited)
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Answer Summary

Members reflected deeply on whether trauma or anxiety triggered their fibromyalgia, with many sharing that significant life events such as the... Read more

Members reflected deeply on whether trauma or anxiety triggered their fibromyalgia, with many sharing that significant life events such as the loss of a child, surviving domestic abuse for 17 years, family estrangement, stroke, shingles, or complex PTSD preceded their diagnosis. Several members described how emotional devastation, depression, and prolonged stress seemed to activate or worsen their symptoms, though some noted that anxiety and depression may also be symptoms of fibro itself rather than just triggers. A recurring theme was the importance of seeking proper treatment for PTSD and trauma, the strength required to face both emotional and physical pain daily, and the powerful validation that comes from no longer seeing oneself as a victim but as a survivor.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Definitely agree that physical or mental trauma or abuse is the cause of fibro!!

February 14, 2019
A MyFibroTeam Member

I think it can cause fibro. In my case I have had anxiety for years before diagnosis. I had that under control. Then the big whammy was had falling out with oldest daughter she decided not to speak to me for a year this was very! very devastating for me. I could not believe she did this to me we were very close and she is the mother of my only grandson who was about 18 at the time. He also stopped talking to me for 3 months was taking his mom's side. This also involved my youngest daughter on the opposing side. For a year I didn't do anything got very depressed. Which made me start having back pain. I could on. Then almost two years ago had shingles. Had terrible nerve pain. Since then have had fibro pain which as we know is completely different. So much for my story I could go on and on. Yes I think that trauma, anxiety, and an illness (shingles). Sorry was going on and on

February 13, 2019
A MyFibroTeam Member

I think they are . I have panic disorder with GAD as well as PTSD

February 13, 2019
A MyFibroTeam Member

I don't think a link has been confirmed, but some doctors I've seen over the past two years stated it can be related. I have been diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder and PTSD related to complex trauma.

It would be nice if they could confirm this theory.

February 13, 2019
A MyFibroTeam Member

Thank you. That is very sweet.

I am no longer a victim. I am a survivor.

Still have to deal with the fibro.

Not easy being a grand parent with a man that stole my dignity from me.

February 13, 2019

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