Replies to '06/19 Ask Dr. Phil and Robin'

Sometimes I wonder if people confuse showing affection with having sex. Being affectionate does not always have to lead to a sexual encounter. Movies and TV shows have really blurred that line. Whatever happened to just holding hands with someone or giving someone a hug. Simple acts can have such meaning. There are people who are no longer in my life that I would my right arm to have one more hug from them. Especially my Dad and my Grandma.

If Dr. Phil ever  does a show on PTSD, I would really like to know.  My therapist believes that I could use a regular psychiatrist (someone familiar with the disorder, of course) but my insurance, county benefits, will not cover that.

I have the dubious honor of being the 'poster child' of domestic abuse . . . but I am going on with my life as best as I can.

 I've been married five years and have had a handful of serious relationships before then. Even now, the act of intimacy (kissing, something even more intimate) tenses me up and I trust my husband SO much. It can be SO hard to get beyond that past abuse and the way the memories make you automatically tense up. Trust and counseling can help a lot, but having the right partner is the absolute best. Mine has put his understanding in me and my past, and I'm so fortunate to have him!

Good luck. I hope you can find your way to trusting again,

 I was not sure what my anxiety with guys was all about until today's show, but knew it came from my lack of familiarity with closeness and affection, especially with male role models as you said Dr Phil.

After hearing you refer to it as 'anticipatory anxiety', I was thrilled to have something to go on in search of more info.

I haven't found very much, as of yet, related specifically to anticipatory anxiety to intimacy, however.

I know you suggested a course of short-term professional  help to the young woman on the show. I might be interested in pursuing that as well. In terms of something self-help, any particular titles/activities that you would suggest to start with?