a community of practitioners

PTSD

I got officially diagnosed with PTSD recently and I was wondering if there is anyone else out there that has PTSD that runs their own business. I find that massage is fulfilling yet extremely draining for me because of my constant triggers. It has made it hard to keep my business going and sometimes I feel like I'm barely hanging onto it. My body hurts from all my emotional triggers too. I sometimes wonder if it would be better to share with my clients or at least the regulars, but I never want it to be about me or to make my clients uncomfortable. Do you think there comes a point where you share something that personal with your clients? I have had to call in sick and reschedule clients more than I should and I don't want to come off as sketchy…any thoughts I'd appreciate, thanks!

▶ Reply to This

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Neal Lyons on February 28, 2014 at 3:41pm

Trina,

I was diagnosed with PTSD, especially after numerous deployments when I was with the military. I found comfort and solace in massage/yoga and meditation. When a condition comes in between you and your client's full satisfaction, it's best to be open with them. Try not to dwell on it, as many compassionate kinds will ask you to go into details. Your goal should be to explain the reason behind some of the behavior/cancellations etc. This way they know if and when something happens. That said, always reassure them that when you are working on them, it is all about them and their needs and that is your 100% sole focus during that particular point in time.

Have you considered taking your skills and talents and doing something else? Such as teaching/offering courses, putting video tutorials together, etc. Many therapists are branching out to all sorts of things. I co founded the MTSI institute, which is growing beyond my expectations. Happy to talk through various options if you'd like.

All the best

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Trina Throckmorton on March 5, 2014 at 1:58pm

Thanks for your reply Neal. I am sorry to hear that you were diagnosed with PTSD too. That is along the lines of what I was thinking too- giving an explanation as to why, but not too many details so the focus is on them. I actually have been thinking about branching out in other ways. I have been a TA for my school in the past, but haven't for a while. I love teaching, but I'm not sure how to go about it. I feel like physically I can only do so many massages right now, so having other outlets would b e great. I'm definitely open to ideas. What is the MTSI Institute? Thanks!

▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Neal Lyons on March 6, 2014 at 9:41am

Tina,

There are endless possibilities to branch out and take your knowledge/skills and interest to help others meet their needs/objectives. MTSI is a volunteer based organization dedicated to helping aspiring massage students/therapists go on to establish successful careers. Before joining, I was involved in several other initiatives outside of the massage work that allowed me to replace my massage income so that I can do other things. Because of my attachment to massage however I came back in a capacity that allows me to stay involved and give back to the profession. I'd be happy to share some of what I have done and my experience with you if you'd like to message me offline. All the best

Trina Throckmorton said:

Thanks for your reply Neal. I am sorry to hear that you were diagnosed with PTSD too. That is along the lines of what I was thinking too- giving an explanation as to why, but not too many details so the focus is on them. I actually have been thinking about branching out in other ways. I have been a TA for my school in the past, but haven't for a while. I love teaching, but I'm not sure how to go about it. I feel like physically I can only do so many massages right now, so having other outlets would b e great. I'm definitely open to ideas. What is the MTSI Institute? Thanks!