psychological & sexual abuse as a child

[j31598]

Hello- my husband suffered a horrible childhood of mental and sexual abuse. He suffers from a WIDE array of psychological and physical health problems now, which he believes are all a result of this trauma. Everything from uncontrollable racing HORRIFIC mental images which result in severe neck twitching/jerking which leads to chronic headaches and neck pain, head banging in sleep, nightmares, depression, anger, thoughts of suicide, self-esteem/self-hate issues, constant hair twirling, extremely painful digestive and going to the bathroom problems.. These are all on a DAILY basis. He seems to be constantly in pain and tries so hard to hide it. He tries to be positive but he hurts so much. As we go to sleep he tells me images he sees in his head and it blows my mind. They are racing, extremely disturbing images and when this happens his head jerks to one side, sometimes as much as 30 times a minute. This did NOT happen when we first met, probably because he wasn't as comfortable around me as he is now. He apologizes profusely for keeping me awake and I know he can't help it.  When we go for counseling they tell him to exercise and keep a journal. We have been to MANY "shrinks" and none have told us anything we didn't already know. He does not want to take prescriptions for every single one he's taken creates new problems(side-effects), often worse than his original symptoms. I am so sad and scared for him. What can I do? I constantly remind him how much I love him and we are SO close to each other. This seems to do nothing, however. The more stress and anxiety, the worse these problems get.

[margypops]

I dont mean to trivialise what your husband is going through, but has he tried supplements, myself and my Family dont take the prescribed drugs,although we do appreciate others do need them,it is our choice, we have found them helpful for so many alments, Physical and mental, if you have a health food store near you check it out and look online to see what he could take, it is possible that he is deficient and needs them to support his system. Does he take any meds at all at the moment as they also can cause some of the things you describe, let us know how you are both doing.

[AnnaE]

Sorry no one has anwered you. Have you been to a therapist who specializes in abuse?
Have you seen a psychiatrist for medication?

I think better help is available. He could find a group for adults with PTSD, perhaps.