Traumatic Flashbacks When I Exercise

[mvillarreal]

Hi, everyone. So today I decided not to run because this week, whenever I've tried to work out, I've started having flashbacks to traumatic experiences that make me feel very uneasy. Does anyone know why this only seems to happen when I'm exercising? The worst is when I run past something that reminds me of the experience I had. I can see it very vividly in my mind's eye, and I find it very intrusive and uncomfortable. And I don't think this new routine I'm having to adjust to with Covid 19 is helping, to be honest (I don't do well with change!).

[Hidden]

I hear you. I do not know why this is happening-- I am not a mental healthcare professional. I have, however, suffered panic attacks while running and it can be quite unsettling and worrisome (for the next run). The only thing I knew to do was go out and run again. I'm not sure of the traumatic event, or if it is location-specific (maybe run a different route if possible). I was scheduled for 7 upcoming races and they all got cancelled and that (coupled with looking up exes) sent me spiraling down into a deep hole.... I don't like change or being told what to do (social distancing, stay home, etc.) either. The thing that's helped me this week is to set up a new schedule, new goals for myself. I have now reconnected to that wonderful, solo feeling of running super early in the morning. I love it; seeing & hearing the birds wake up, seeing other wild life (stray white cat I've seen a few times) and a fox this morning. Not that parts of it is not stressful, worrisome ... I get it. I don't think you want to be traumatized on every run so (1) new routine aside from running; (2) trying a different route; (3) talk therapy/journaling... those are some suggestions I have.... Good luck.