Fortress Tutorial 2: The REAL cause of mental health problems (CPTSD Richard Grannon)

[@sage9836]

This makes total practical sense. Is anyone else feeling some relief as a result of clearer thinking?

[@meghanworkman6449]

100% yes.

[@danashannon8234]

I can't think clearly

[@27boof]

Yes, I'm definitely feeling relieved :)

[@marinak5112]

oh yes!

[@odette8905]

100%

[@corb5654]

I am not for a moment exaggerating when I say that this is one of the most informative and helpful discussions I have ever found on anything relating to the depression, anxiety and the 4 Fs. Been in treatment and on meds for decades, why the hell was this not explained to me??? From the bottom of my heart, thank you Richard.

[@IamThatiAm420]

I feel the same way. Richard Grannon is a gift from God!

[@Te3na50]

He has a talent for breaking shit down in ways that the average human can understand. GOD Bless You Richard ! I don't know how long it took you to create this 'OMG it is that fking simply and one can heal itself wen it understands exactly how it works ' explanation . Thank You for doing what the fking money hungry Dr s and therapist , psychiatrist & pharmaceutical companys could possible have less patients and less ppl on meds that they don't even need. BRAVO!!!

[@liznorth4028]

I agree!!!! He's a hero. A real hero.

[@nebing7708]

its said that if you cant explain a topic simply then you dont know alot about the topic, well richard is 100% not one of those people who cant explain something simply

[@Te3na50]

@@nebing7708 i agree!

[@mariarichards5221]

Well said.

[@adimeter]

I'm living that freeze response. I don't want to run into the awful fellows who live next door. Argue, argue, argue. That are from what I think is a narcissistic family. Sad and frightening.

[@pwilsonkelly]

Extremely insightful. Plus I do agree with the use of "Response" instead of "Disorder". I have a number of associates in the mental health profession. I intend to send them links.

[@richardgrannonfortressment9247]

Peter wilson-kelly thanks Peter!

[@rs5570]

Yes.This distinction is *critical* to me in having understanding of what is going on. The current model would have us think we're "disordered" which is utter nonsense & sells a lot of drugs. But I didn't realize this until RG points it out. This distinction is profound and it's implications for healing are revolutionary, in my opinion. This is the s***, right here.

[@berniebarclay2183]

And the term disorders carries baggage, such as shame. Which feeds right back into the pain and further maladaptive responses. Fascinating.

[@mariarichards5221]

Absolutely.

[@eveningprimrose3088]

@@richardgrannonfortressment9247 can I successfully use the method described in part 3 if I experience alexithymia a lot? Sometimes I experience some strong negative emotion and can't figure out why, and it can have me stumped for days.

[@carolynspurgeon5948]

You're really giving us all some hope. I personally need to have an understanding of what I am dealing with. This is great!

[@earthangel7386]

Multiple MASSIVE TRAUMAS for over 45 yrs. Now im constantly on high alert without a break

[@yourenough3]

Escaping is my problem and has been for a majority of my adult life. In 1999 I was in rehab and the psychiatrist diagnosed me with bpd. Then in 2006 a different psychiatrist said diagnosed me with bipolar 2 . I've done so much research and i do believe they just diagnose people with what ever they can prescribe meds for. Cptsd ( r ) is what my " label " should be. Thanks so much for breaking this down in this way.

[@ttrainor70]

This is a real problem! I was wrongly diagnosed bipolar2 also! I didn't understand what "racing thoughts" meant, and the emotional dysregulation sounds like "cycling" to them, even when it happens within the same hour! This seriously needs to be looked into!!

[@yourenough3]

@@ttrainor70 the medications they put me on really hurt me , psychiatric meds are the worst to withdrawl from. Zoloft and serequil. After I stopped the meds and treatment I had insomnia and other major issues. Been free from those meds for almost 8 years , thank goodness. These videos and Richards videos and a couple of other channels on KZbin have helped me more than any psycologist ever has.

[@ttrainor70]

@@yourenough3 Thanks for the reply. Yep, they gave me seroquel and I threw it away after the first dose. Sleep paralysis and lethargy.That sh*t was poison. We've probably watched many of the same videos. It's a shame that "real doctors" haven't seen them, too. Edit: Yup, we've watched many of the same videos ; )

[@yourenough3]

@@ttrainor70 yup. Lol

[@yourenough3]

@@ttrainor70 have a good night / day - wherever you live. Its night for me about to get some sleep =) good luck on your journey of healing. Hope these videos are helping you as mu j as they're helping me.

[@Redeemed1983]

As a child with a narcissist father and a BPD mother, my fawning response was to find peace at any price and to be a people pleaser to try to survive.

[@maggiekay7294]

Brilliant ❤️ Spent 5 years in Divorce Court my Cortisol levels were over the limits , should have been dead .Spent $300,000 on my legal bills . He left the country and I had no way of getting what I had fought for. Won an Appeal Court $90,000 because Judge made a mistake Orders ,Final Orders all meant nothing to a Narc. 31 times in front a judge I was terrorized of court rooms. I walked away. I lost 28 years of my life . Only good that came out of it was my FREEDOM and a Family Law was created after my case .

[@nakuruhike7991]

Cannot understand why 15 people disliked this.... unless they are lazy therapists who are pissed off at the free and also very enlightening and healing advice! 😅😬

[@ElleCooper]

understanding my flight > anxiety > addiction > my various selves and fawn co-dependency state has been a HUGE wake-up call. I see a long hard (exciting!!!!) journey over the rest of my life. Feelings are new, I've been frozen for so long. Nothing else has ever worked. Now I see why. Huge (considered) gratitude.

[@blakelyrosman7685]

Delivering a message that is true and provides hope in a world so desperate. I dont believe im in a state of fawning unless there is another layer. This fits reality of who I am and how I would understand others in the most nondiscriminatory honorable way with all my flaws and broken filters. This is the first thing that has soothed my system in search of answers acutely for over a year to chronically over my life span experience/knowledge which is limited. Avoiding social media and hearing someone describe a behavior as a troll created the discovery of your program to understand my pain of the present with systems of my family culture and society that just dont work taking on unattractive suffering always late to a game i didnt want to be in without capacity to recognize. im fawning at the fear more likely from the anxiety that propels good things to move forward in face of knowing crazy both ways create death I see so much potential/hope for this creating data information to understand healthcare that does not discriminate.This would increase access to everyone and become a way of viewing health as a right not a privilege.

[@BelleOfAmherst]

Richard, I might have left a comment previously, but after watching, pausing, rewinding, note-taking & watching this (#2) as well as Tutorial #1, multiple times, I have to tell you that what you’ve taught, illustrated & concisely explained, you’ve condensed at least a decade, if not more, of various modalities of traditional therapy, to a much more workable, hope-filled, understandable process! It is positively brilliant. I’m sharing this with others I believe would benefit. I’m doing this. Full on. Watched #1 & #2 again, to REALLY prepare, with a deeper understanding for #3 (watched yesterday), the practise of which begins TODAY. I cannot thank you enough. You’ve found your calling, & you are so gifted at sharing it! Let’s go! All my gratitude, Belle 🦋

[@michelegallagher7351]

First, I am a licensed mental health counselor in my 12th year of private practice, for 6 years worked on locked psychiatric units (adolescent, dual diagnosis, developmental disability combined with psychiatric, tri-diagnosis- forensic, addiction plus psychiatric), for 7 years worked in community mental health (severe and persistent chronic mental health issues such as schizophrenia and severe cases of bipolar, personality disorders, addiction and OCD/anxiety). Richard offered a great lesson in this video. However, while personality disorders are pervasive and personal, they are not universally permanent. Personality disorders are also learned just as much as the other mental health labels in the DSM that are not the result of damage to the brain (structurally). Personality disorders can be unlearned. However, can take more time and be more challenging in terms of the process. In consideration of Cluster B "Disorders": Most people who meet the criteria for NPD go through life never seeking out and/or receiving help (so treatment modalities have not been fully researched and/or developed). And those who meet the criteria for BPD can seem permanently, let's say, impaired...but can recover. Those who would be labelled with anti-social personality disorder can also recover (see Child of Rage full documentary....be advised it is very disturbing). It is possible for full recovery of these disorders (meaning no pathological behaviors impeding living a healthy and whole-hearted life). Main problems are the limitation(s) of treatment (in hospitals, community mental health and private or group practice) and also the re-traumatizing nature of living in an unforgiving society. I know this video is almost 2 years old, so hopefully Richard has changed his mindset on this assertion. Still great to have such helpful (and free!) tutorial.

[@jensmith3719]

i concur with your summary, very well put, definitely did not agree with his statement of the permanence of personality disorder,

[@thethingofitis]

It's been difficult to get people help because the culture includes this negatory haze around it for maintaining ignorance and not helping really. It's much more convenient to have no compassion because then you have no responsibility to anyone so you'll hear all kinds of comments on why the suffering person deserves it etc. One thing I still haven't heard you discuss in my journey through your library of videos is the bystanders roles in the whole process and ideas of shifting it... I don't know about UK but out here people enjoy trainwrecks, gossiping, obsessing over horrible tragedies and complaining incessantly. Would be very interested in that. Thanks for helping. This is a very useful guide/drill down on it as-is much appreciated. I've cycled through all of these including ones outside of it that you mentioned briefly. It's a painful procedure, living.

[@tommykopperud4638]

Wow. Most informative breakdown on 4F`s ive evere seen/heard. Learned a lot. Looking for answers 8-10 years. Thank you!!!

[@christyannceraso]

Thank you for your work Richard. I'm a therapist and I found your channel as I'm working to better understand the codependent patterns in my clients and how to help them deal with the patterns they enact with narcissists. I appreciate your emphasis on complex trauma, it's also been my focus in helping my clients and myself. Our world is so full of trauma and habitual trauma responses. It's one enormous war zone.

[@stixsta6007]

Round of applause. Didn't dissapoint and I wait with anticipation for the next tutorial. Thanks muchly.

[@krisgram2341]

Sadness is life without a source of joy a hope for joy a hope for love

[@kahlodiego5299]

I was gaslighted and triggered by an unethical therapist. When I refused to see her again. I knew I would not be believed. I am now protecting myself from the "mental health" system.

[@vr3216]

Richard one request pl never take of these videos or make it private ...i can't pay for these but its exactly the kind of direction and help i really need

[@nichola9164]

Thank you, as always. Struggling for years to access mental health services with no luck, I don't qualify, and can't afford private. Working through my own issues having been raised by parents with quite severe mental health issues themselves. Largely been doing great with self help but since my 3 year old was diagnosed with a chronic serious health condition last year, I seem to have regressed immensely. Sadly, I am very much of the flight type of responder, heavily into dissociation (from childhood even - I remember daydreaming for hours as a small child to escape abuse, I would even skip seeing friends or go to bed early just to do it), also have a very addictive personality. I was referred by the nhs to an online programme but it was very confusing and condescending, I didn't feel it made sense at all, it seemed to be centred around the idea that all of our problems can be walked off (lol). Your content is incredible, very eye opening and insightful, I am looking forward to your next video and as always, thanks.

[@avalonmist254]

I have felt such as you and I'm sick so sorry about your little one. Jordan Peterson stated that Depression is when you have a great life yet your incredibly Depressed which indicates a chemical inbalence yet if your feeling a sense of deep depression because your having a shitty life that is normal. I agree...i think you would be odd if you were not struggling now. Honor the grief Honor the Anger Honor every feeling and emotion that's what they are there for. Bless you and your family

[@wordivore]

@@avalonmist254 I honestly wouldn't listen to JP on the definition of depression.

[@Urban_Piggy]

It’s so stupid that mental health services that are actually any good are so unaffordable for so many. It makes me think that those in the profession are not really concerned with helping those in need as they are with “making bank”! In my part of Canada, it’s $200.00 per hour. -This- is not right! I’d prefer to just be told honestly if someone is trying to rob me. Don’t try to disguise it as “therapy”. 🤥 💰

[@mariuszwiesiolek9340]

I hope you're doing better since, best wishes for the kid!

[@lisabeaumont]

This makes perfect sense and I don't find it in the slightest bit controversial! I've recently realised that I engage in VERY regular - I'd say they're almost constant in terms of frequency - multiple maladaptive responses to emotional flashbacks around triggers that I simply can't put my finger on. I have to be extremely careful not to get into arguments (fight), I have to keep myself super-occupied so that I don't have to "feel" (flight), I've found myself bargaining and negotiating down in abusive relationships (fawn), and have times when I've had to force myself with everything I've got in order to take care of myself when depressed (freeze). I can be going about my day and suddenly experience complete and utter terror. I'll start physically shaking and get a feeling in my chest and throat like I'm about to vomit. Out of absolutely nowhere, for no apparent reason. My current response is to repeatedly tell myself out loud that I'm OK, I'm doing great, everything is totally fine, and just push through it. If it's so extreme that it's debilitating then I pray to Jesus for peace. Learning that this is an actual thing and is called an "emotional flashback" and that I can reduce it is very encouraging, and I'm looking forward to learning the techniques. Thank you, Richard; you explain everything so well.

[@Cr8ive453]

You are one of the brightest lights illuminating the world. I wish you much joy and infinite blessings ❤

[@brendaplunkett8659]

This revolutionizes mental health. In the past I have been on antidepressants for decades and in my early 20’s was in inpatient hospitals.It never cured my depression and I spent thousands on doctors and psychiatrists. What if my health care provider said” you are being abused by a Cluster B person with a personality disorder. Get out of this doomed relationship “. At least now I can heal my trama for good. Thank you for creating this!

[@odette8905]

'Scuse my French, but absofuckinglutely spot on with this model! Neuroscience is now backing this up with evidential studies.

Aahh, so this is why meditation works to reduce stress and anxiety in people. Over time, people disassociate with their direct feelings more and place their awareness in their body (and thus still being aware of their feelings, but less involved in them). Thereby reducing the amount of emotional flashbacks or at least it's influence. Brilliant :) Now I understand this connection between spirituality and mental health. Like, not the wooshy masturbatory spiritual stuff ofc, but the here and now, liberation and awareness kind of spirituality.

[@eclipsedawn9]

I live with cptsdmyself.I know this is correct and very valuable information. Thank you Richard you are saving lives. Literally

[@goodintentions1302]

Thank you Richard. It's only after listening to this that I realize I am actually having flashbacks. Thankfully, I'm away from the narcs and no longer feel drawn to them. Thanks for all you share.

[@thaliabloom5916]

I prefer ‘response’ to ‘disorder’ too. Disorder sounds like it’s the individual’s fault that there’s something disordered, but it’s a natural response to a shitty set of circumstances. The adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) score is useful for perspective, as is the Holmes-Rahe Stress Scale. Some may need some support during, or after those assessments. I appreciated the reality check ❤️ Thanks Richard. Flight has been my go-to since age 15 (if not before with imagination and zoning out) and it’s taken me around the world & deep into the K Hole once, or thrice 🌎 No contracted work, no house, no obligated relationships, just a few suitcases scattered around the world and a commitment to a creative lifestyle and career, but I finally plan to (dare I say it).... Settle down in early 2021 🇦🇺

[@avalonmist254]

Yes I escaped at 13 and found a commune, was a homebirth midwife at 20, mother of 2 by 20 , an RN at 27 and more. Now I'm very sick however the commune focus was Buddhism has helped me stay in the Now! I'm bedridden alone a lot however I've decided to do hard scary things like go back to college . Anger is a normal emotion along with every emotion it's there to tell us to make a quick change not to be hidden and oppressed. Anger makes others uncomfortable instead it needs to be expressed for me through dance. I refuse to be in any relationship that is harmful in anyway. Our society needs to educate everyone concerning normal human behavior and what to do with emotions. Getting stuck in emotional distress and being victim shamed especially in our youth is a result of a very sick society based on Power and Control...

[@thaliabloom5916]

@@avalonmist254 wow 13 is very young. You're a survivor. Pleased Buddhism is helping you. I spent 3 - 6 months in bed in 2018 - 2019 and it was a very tough time. I hope you have support

[@odette8905]

Agree with Plant Palace. 'Response' is more appropriate than 'disorder'... psychotherapists sometimes talk about 'situational depression' - i.e. arisen because of a certain set of circumstances. Thank you Richard.

[@thaliabloom5916]

​@@odette8905 yes, situational depression. Psychs are more likely to state that. It's the doctors that usually label it depression and dish out pills. Nobody I personally know ever got better as a result of pills. One guy on Joe Rogan rated SSRIs, but that's it. I look at 100% of the people I know on pills and think, 'You have every right to be depressed. Look at your life.' 9 times out of 10, if I'm feeling 'depressed' I can point to the several incidences that preceded the dip. Usually something to do with work, or relationships, but occasionally home, health and money. Usually something triggering core wounds of abandonment, or when I've been unconsciously neglecting my core values, usually in favour of a job that pays and/or looks good on paper. If I accepted a diagnosis and took a pill, perhaps I wouldn't get the impetus to quit/move/break up/up-skill/change? CPTSR has been a much more helpful label than any other. It's something I can actually work with and shift. It explains everything and once I got over the reality of my childhood experience, I couldn't help but have compassion for both of my parents and my grandparents who clearly were experiencing CPTSR too.

[@odette8905]

@@thaliabloom5916 That's amazingly insightful. Agree with all you've said. And Richard's model works much better than any other I've come across.

[@sjhdevin]

I really can't thank you enough for the work you do and the knowledge you share. My brothers and sisters and I were raised in a cult, we were raised by a father who was abusive emotionally and physically, a mother who was loving but also loves to use guilt and manipulation to keep us close to her. We all left the cult and are navigating not only how to live in this big new world but also our own personal relationships with our parents. We are all finding ourselves in very toxic and unhealthy relationships and patterns in life. I'm sharing all you teach me with my family. You've impact my life in a very big way. Okay, I'll now stop writing this book hahaha and simply say thank you.

[@liznorth4028]

Sarah 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

[@adimeter]

Very good Richard - detailed and hit me square in the neurotransmitters😂

[@AsheetBull]

Got big love for you Richard. Thank you for doing this for us. You’ve helped me shift my life already and I haven’t been doing it for that long. Thanks again, this is sublime.

[@rs5570]

Good word, sublime.

[@ConservativePrincess]

As someone who grew up in an abusive house hold, usually the escape goat and truth teller. I found when I became a sister when I was 8 years old. I'd often negotiate with my bio. father that he could abuse me but only if he left my siblings and mom alone. That carried into my teenage years until I was about 14 and he broke that deal; throwing my brother clear across the room for not picking his toys up. After I got out of that and got older; became a mom. I found myself negotiating similar situations though not as bad as my childhood for my children too. Is this behavior a type of fawning? I know you said fawning was negotiating your own personal suffering and abusive relationships. Just trying to understand the fawning part a little better and know what this behavior I keep repeating would fall under. Ty for your time your fortress videos have been helping me get through things I didn't know were still there.

[@universaltruth2025]

That is really awful. Sorry to hear you went through that. I guess that would be a type of fawning, as it was self sacrifice. Maybe it was a way of putting forward a stronger persona or facade to cope with the abuse. So sorry to hear about your younger brother. Some adults are just evil.

[@simplylily336]

Thank you so much for all your help. Watched the 1st tutorial. Excited for the 2nd. Please know Richard u are really helping alot of us. And there are many who are applying what ur teaching. For me it is working. Seeing results after 3 days of the stop emotional flashback techniques. Blessings mate from Arizonia

[@maxinecashel1248]

Hi Jonathan, I’ve been labeled with the CPTSD and I didn’t think it was a disorder but who am I to argue. I do like the clinic they send me to though it’s a bit like a motel with exception, all meals are delivered😉. I certainly have CPTS but I certainly don’t appreciate the D attached. You have made this so much clearer with one word change. I don’t feel so alone now cause there are heaps of people who have had a crap life & need to deal with stuff. I’m on 7 tablets of a morning, one D cause it’s a vitamin so 6. Not a happy Chappy! Thanks Jonathan you’re an angel. 🤗😉

[@yv0nnehaigh248]

Thank you Richard. Your method should also be taught in schools along with meditation. Your presentation is excellent, you are a shining light for people to trust and feel supported. This method is going to help so many people. I am setting my alarm! 😃

[@LongReachOne]

I am watching it.. It just occurred to me that most of the micro traumas I have were like "Someone else TOLD you to feel this way", "Someone else is influencing you to SAY you have these feelings" . See they were always jealous. Some random person must be influencing me lol........ and then as I got older, "what you think you are feeling is not what you are REALLY feeling" and "you're too STUPID to know what it is you're SUPPOSED to be feeling". No wonder I went numb. I really did until I had Andrew.

[@rm-pc3544]

I did the emotional literacy course but I still go for 0-100 in rage every day. Seperated from the love of my life 2 years ago after 10 years of relationship and my best friend died a few months after the breakup. Their is a constant scream inside my head and a gut wrenching feeling in my stomach and intestines every single day.

[@RICHARDGRANNON]

RM-PC How many times did you do the exercise do you think? Over how long? If it’s less than 30 times, you might have watched the course but you’ve not “done” it as such. Sounds like it would be worth getting back Into the “stop emotional flashback” work for 7 days straight then introduce one-a-day emo lit maps for around 20 to 40 minutes. You can always start again from right where you are, it’s a process, got to be patient.

[@rm-pc3544]

@@RICHARDGRANNON It's less than 30 times. I will keep at it and give the emotional lit maps attention too. Thanks Richard.

[@just2_sharew_u526]

Two different traumas, two different mourning and grieving processes. And I would think the second cut the wound deeper having occurred so close to the first. Have you cried yet?

[@neddavis7568]

Is it possible that extroversion is just a very mild form of fawn reaction to the stress of engaging with another human? And that introversion is a mild form of freeze? Are extroversion and introversion learned behaviours or genetic traits?

[@victoryamartin9773]

Very interesting questions! As an introvert, my go-to response is to freeze.

[@universalpowertarot]

This is incredible!! Thank YOU Richard!! ✨🧡✨ This really helped me understand a lot.

[@jojofeeney]

my favorite part is seeing things as attempts to be protective, a bit more positive than the usual spin.

[@winston_smith_omelette]

I'm about to go on dialysis for my second transplant: mine is more a series of large traumatic events! I'm so glad of your channels, I have been convinced of many dark things about myself, but the puzzle piece fitted here (finally). I have been practising some of the co-dependent affirmations (narcissistic family dynamic) e.g. "I give you permission to want things", and it's powerful stuff! Kudos.

[@DaBlondDude]

I'm pacing around listening to this; that's how uncomfortable I'm feeling trying to step towards it. I definitely recognize 3 Fs; Freeze, then faun, then flee, dissociation for sure, people pleasing (erasing my own position/needs/etc)with anxiety that's been like background music 24/7 for years. Any anger is usually directed at myself, often when I go back and endlessly relive those moments, looking what i could/should have done differently. I've been calling a lot of the individual responses 'umbrellas' since they tend to hide other things under them.

[@joewhisney1113]

Hold up. Richard just wrapped it up in one amazing model. Stoked for the next lesson and mind blown at what has already been presented. Feeling a bit of relief for the first time in a LONG time. Much ❤️

[@janewildeboer]

Depression - been there: waking up crying, can't move, etc. I was in a bad situation. What I was doing was: depressing my spirit. Uhave2 find what belongs to your spirit. Otherwise, yes - your spirit fights back - its job is to support ... YOU. It belongs to you, and you need to respect your very own precious spirit. Otherwise, it will rebel! Please don't drown it. Respect it - and love yourself - first. The main source of anxiety in my life is my twin sister. I am 60. NOW is the time for me to be true to myself. Maybe now is the right time for me to do that. Relax - Discover - Learn - Good Luck x

[@carolinebesinger8611]

Thank you I find your method brilliant, and so helpful. It works if you work it!.

[@NASkeywest]

I was in the military and have a huge problem with authority. I know it can effect my life negatively but i honestly feel like alot of authority structures do not deserve my respect or obedience. People earn respect and give respect. I feel like alot of authority figures and structures dont have to give or earn respect. Its like we are just born and raised to obey authority even when its corrupted and harmful. The kicker is i beleive rebellion against it is the right thing but maybe its just all an illusion i created to justify my behaviour and resentment.

[@just2_sharew_u526]

Rebellion is in our Declaration of Independence, however, allow POTUS to continue to drain the political swamp and be excited for the next term when things really get going. Until then, get the free flashback course (anger is a safety response for fear) and look into the emo literacy course. I consider any emotional outburst that I feel and can't control is an emo flashback.

[@liznorth4028]

@@just2_sharew_u526 i agree! ..my experience too! I used to think maybe i was possessed 😂 ..i laugh *now*

[@liznorth4028]

Dark Star like she said...it seems like youre triggered by the auth.figure and go into emot'l flshback...? Let's keep learning from Richard! To me, this hope is such a relief!

[@kingaberlakovich5585]

For me depression is like I fall in a deep dark hole, everything is dark and heavy, and although I try to crawl out I can’t. Everything is heavy, hopeless, dark , foggy, and I just sit in this f…ing pit and cry. Painful and dark place.

[@victoryamartin9773]

Well said.

[@PC-kc4lw]

Fawn... This is a big one for me. Now I definitely understand why some people don't leave their house.

[@just2_sharew_u526]

Had great aunt who was a total recluse for last 2 years of her life. Kids had to put her meals inside the door. Couple of years ago I did in-home care. 12-14 hrs a day, for 10 months no days off (because I was going to have to pay someone to cover me at 3-4 times the pay I got--some people doing live in care actually become prisoners). Anywho, only drove around the block to go to food store. Took me 8 months to recover. imagine a borderline on alert all that time. Fibromyalgia got worse big time. Now when I have an emo flashback I can actually feel the adrenaline chemical reaction burning it's way down arms and legs. some warning buzzer, eh?

[@everydaytherapist7315]

This is pretty accurate and well-articulated. Please do more of these. Both therapists and clients can benefit immensely.

[@liznorth4028]

Its refreshing to see a therapist who is still wanting to learn. ..means you're really good.

[@angellarichard2467]

🍃💞🍃No words can describe my gratitude for all you assistance and guidance Richard! 🍃💞🍃 LOVE AND LIGHT BE WITH YOU ALWAYS🥰

[@CrisNunya]

Ok. Mr Grannon, do you cover when you have CPTSR from multiple major traumas along with multiple small traumas? Or am I completely screwed? I'm going to watch your remaining Fortress Tutorials. Thanks for your time and work!! You've been so helpful in my education about narcissism with my father & ex-boyfriend and my journey with codependency. I've now watched your 3rd Fortress video. LOVE IT! Taken notes & done 1-5 finger exercise twice. Wow. I feel slightly hopeful 🙂. I'm still interested in your response about multiple major traumas over time in different contexts, please.

[@speedypete4987]

Brilliant work especially around the fawning response. The idea that there is no fulfillment because you are doing it for your abuser is so insightful. thank you. Also, ADD inattentive and ADHD are both responses to pain and stress that are becoming increasingly common. But yes, you are right about Abusive relationships arising from a fawning response.

[@TheMisssy2]

I know it is necesssary to go thru the whole series..but not going to lie, this part is giving me axiety...because i a remembering everything. I am trying to forget...LOL....Thank you.

[@edkuijper1155]

Richard, i need to make a huge compliment for your knowledge, your analysing and your way to explain people how our brain responses. Very helpfull. Now i know what has happend in my latest relationship with me and my mind. After getting pain en stress from her rejections i ''fight'' to make it work. I did not quit (flying), because this is very seldom my response. I am a fighter (judo, mountainclimber). As i got now responses anymore from her, i went in a freezing depressing state of mind. A natural primal way of my mind to deal with to much pain of unrequited love. I promised myself to stay no contact. But it is heavy !!!. Because my mind also tend to be fawn (codependend), to make excuses, to negotiate en please her to get back to her. Back to this toxic relation !. To get releave from the pain. But i realise with my consiousness it is not good !. It breaks my selfrespect, selfestheem and leads to no forfillment, makes the relation even more toxic. The only way we could have contact in the future is stopping to do each other pain en triggering these animalistic primal responses !. Because this pain has triggerd all the primal defence mechanisms in both of us. Her primal response is flight. Not particulary helpfull to solve problems in relationships.

[@cherylegalloway5448]

This is so informative. I now understand so much of my response to the toxic abuse I endured in my marriage.

[@cleyswilliams2096]

Richard, I am stunned, because I didn’t know this information about all the causes of mental health problems and how there are an interconnection between the mechanics of defense. I welcome my Maladaptive Personality Traits ( anxiety), but I will work on it in replacing with productive ones..Which, I don’t know how to do it?..But, Richard, WHY are you so handsome? I will answer that: because he can’t help it, but to be Handsome. Thank you, Richard.

[@ChooseCompassion]

I am beyond grateful that I was divinely lead to you. After binging your videos all weekend I finally have a diagnosis that makes sense. I asked my 73 year old psychiatrist/psychologist about this as the possible correct diagnosis and he had no idea about this. Needless to say I emailed him many of your links. I really appreciate this one because you break it down in one video. I am sharing this with all of my friends that have been struggling for decades with misdiagnoses and pharmaceuticals that only make it worse. Thank you! Namasté 🙏🏼❤️

[@lesleyelalami2562]

While watching this I've just realised that for 45 years I spontaneously/unwittingly/intuitively ploughed through this process by journalling. I knew journalling worked for me.... it was my homework and my 'sanity' pad which I used frequently, this video explains why. Thank you.x

[@janjenkinson1829]

OMG! I have listened to many of your videos, I’ve witness your attempts at truly wanting to help. Bingo your onto it now Richard this is completely matter of fact true. Perhaps difficult to swallow it does take courage. Thank you, now I have a better understanding where and why I have used this maladaptive behavior. Looking forward to your next tutorial. Brilliant 🙏

[@liznorth4028]

I get so emotional hearing Richard explain what's been going on all these years..and i hope young people are listening!

[@TheOnly1brenna]

Totally awesome! Thank you so much for explaining this so clearly. I've been studying this stuff for several years now and have made great progress but I never considered that they were emotional flashbacks. I've recently only been able to work with myself by calling them habits and it's something I'm doing...and of course the many tools that I know to process this stuff. I've made good progress. I'm ready for your next video...super happy that you find this type of information exciting and fun and it's your passion. 🤗

[@user-lu2wu4kz2l]

it helps me feel hopeful hearing you talk

[@melissalopes9373]

Excellent Richard 🙏✨

[@theangryshaman]

This makes sense... I was Diagnosed with Severe PTDS... but I would go through a wide range of emotion with no single trigger, and no memory of why I would react the way I did. But I did figure I felt all emotions all at the exact same time. I would get angry, my body would be shaking like I was scared, I would cry like I was hurt, I would stand there frozen waiting for the final magical trigger that would make me black out. I would have a dark adrenaline running in my veins, tun my mouth a mile a second like I was anxious but I never actually felt anything. I was detached from mind and body and was just watching the event. Then the lights go out but I experienced time continue.

[@krisgram2341]

You truly amaze me richard and I don't care if thats your name I don't care if I ever meet u I have evolved as a human being having known the thoughts that are yours an yes weather you care or not I am grateful

[@MrGoncaloFigueiras]

You are just the best,man! I haven t been able to heal yet, but you have helped me so much. I would like to recreate my life in a way that i can create the circumstance to thank you personaly one day

[@GeraldSteyn]

Richard. Can't thank you enough. There's hope 😃

[@ashrafadam28]

Thank you for taking time out to share this for free. Incredibly grateful! So easy to understand

[@Hazel-Ray]

Many lightbulb moments. Thank you

[@drw78]

Spot on in my opinion. This makes so much sense to me.

[@ajsrabbit7564]

Wow, you are giving this info for free? What are you, a saint? You must love humanity.

[@mariarichards5221]

Gratitude, my fellow traveller. This material will grow to help our societies in healing. Blessed, blessing. We start with ourselves first. True compassion! Self love translated outwardly. ❤🌹🍁🙏 meaning Self love not selfish at all. 💝.

[@Yellow-Rose]

Best description of depression I've heard, thank you Richard. Physical as well as mental and debilitating in so many weird ways.

[@franktownfrank]

Richard, please keep going. Never give up. This series of videos is a beautiful and is creating limitless good in the world.

[@ellenlawes9485]

I feel enlightened and have a sense of positivity about the future, Why on earth wernt we taught this years ago? Thank you so much

[@sanniichigo949]

I'm new here but it makes a lot of sense. The biggest progress I made is when I realised that my problem wasn't depression and anxiety but trauma

[@natashacannavo9382]

Awesome Richard! thanks. I know it isn't anything you haven't said before, but the clear, concise way you have presented it is extremely helpful. You must be getting frustrated with people who have been following you for years but don't seem to be healing, who seem to be asking the same old questions. I have been one of those people and in recent times have been trying to figure out why. The affect of life long abuse seemed to have left me with a low attention span and difficulty with short term memory, also always seem to be in a state of confusion, mind fog, which I think now was that I was constantly in one long flashback that was ongoing. This very direct, clear, presentation without your classic pattern interrupt, and little diverting chats or jokes, I feel made it easier for me to absorb. I've also worked on emotional flashbacks and emotional literacy so I think that has helped too but after watching this video I realise I have to go back to working on emotional flashbacks again really seriously. Thanks again. You say in tutorial 3 you'll be showing us how to deal with all this, which I suppose will be how to deal with the emotional flashbacks. I'd love a similarly presented video on that, cant wait to see it.

[@RICHARDGRANNON]

Natasha Cannavo if you look at “CPTSR thriver sad baby archetypes” vídeos I’m pointing at this issue: we simply lose the ability to help our own selves. It requires “fairly” diligent work to get this kind of thing done, you need 30 days of it in the bag really. If a person can’t get themselves into the rugged “help myself” / “make it happen” mindset they might not make it that far. So yeah I come back around and speak as though I’m talking to people in that state of being.

[@natashacannavo9382]

@@RICHARDGRANNON Thanks for that. I didn't just watch the video I studied it, really good stuff and it was very helpful. The emotional flashback manifesting as a whole personality makes sense. So the sad baby archetype would sort of manifest as a personality with learnt helplessness? After watching the video and some introspection I realised a lot of things. I think the bottom line of sad baby archetype is, I'm not good enough, as you stated in your video, your bad. I think that that is key. If we can get that, really get it and "realise" how debilitating that subconscious feeling actually is. How parental rejection causes primal fear. We may be adults now but that feeling is still running our lives from the subconscious, and off course the longer we lived at home with our abusive family the worse it gets. The fear of parental rejection and the NEED for their approval is still in us, because without it you are still bad, not good enough which means you can't make it on your own. So we still attract relationships with the same toxic type people because subconsciously we are not good enough for any better ( or still trying to complete the bond with beings that are energetically similar to our parents) and we can't seem to get our life to work (on a sliding scale) Maybe if we can get in touch with those feelings, validate them and do your emotional literacy exercise on reassuring those feelings that you are enough, I think it might have a big impact. So that's what I was inspired to do after watching that video and I feel heeps better I'll see if it has any effect on my helplessness. In the meantime ill try hard to do what you advised. Thanks again

[@red-pillphil3060]

Excellent!Thank You Richard, You fine Scouser!Look forward to number 3.:)

[@IExpectedBSJustNotThisMuchBS]

My last stumbling block seems to be freezing and not realising I'm freezing because I move forward on all other fronts (meaning, I just freeze on that one thing). The frozen moments get put in a box, make no sense to me, and I don't seem to be able to piece together what I'm seeing. I'm just left confused. I'm being protected by the freeze from seeing the red flag in front of me that's telling me I've chosen someone (yet again) who projects, blames, and shames, doesn't give the benefit of the doubt, turns assumption into fact, doesn't check things out, and carries resentment as if their lives depended on it. (And so I have self abandoned and stayed!) I can see it when it's out in the open--I don't freeze. I act. It's the covert behaviors that must scare the bejesus out of me. Everything starts out fine and seems fine for a long while (meaning, I think we're on the same page). Meanwhile, the other person is storing resentments and eventually red flags, "out of character behaviors" appear (e.g., coldness for no apparent reason, refusal to discuss or simply not responding to a concern, acknowledging a concern is valid and worthy of action, promising to do something about it, and then not, etc.). That's when I freeze. I've already invested so much love and energy in this person I thought was lovely.

[@victoryamartin9773]

It was...for a minute.

[@floridalife215]

This is so good, makes so much sense. I've never heard this model before.

[@nadiag4599]

So grateful for this series. Thank you ever so much. 👏❤️ God bless you for knowing me better than myself and helping me understand ME.

[@freegal440]

Thank you for clarifying Complex PTSD and understanding the various responses.. It was funny when you said ' eradicate emotional flashbacks' and you could not erase 'Emotional Flashbacks' from the board, was that a subconscious move using a permanent marker?

[@svephistoatartikus584]

Thank you Richard. I was in Therapie for 10 weeks Just two month ago inside of a clinik and now i am in a Therapie outside. This will Help me a lot to keep going. So much information an so helping. I am watching it the second time in two days. What i fear the Most right now is talking about one particular Thing in my past that i did. I let someone Talk me in to IT. This all explains how it was possible and what to do to get, with time, Out of IT even my through my own Hands initiatet Trauma. I am so ashamed of myself. So ashamed. It would be less If i was the only one WHO got traumaticed through IT but i arnt. I dont want to Talk about it. I dont want to Talk about what IT does right now with me.

[@reg8297]

I suffer severe post tramatic stress asthma fear terror as a direct result of a parents abuse went onto meet an abuser who turned my kids against me I have that freeze response daily feelings of terror and helplessness and can't find a way out it's a feeling of being overwhelmed by the negative consequences of one's childhood

[@tklmyfncy03]

Wow! Fawning is sooo on target that I can’t believe it’s not formally recognized by the mental health community!😱

[@tklmyfncy03]

This makes PERFECT sense! You are wonderful. Truly.

[@serpensphile]

Thank you. I can't say it or express it enough. Thank you.

[@_NotGin]

I was the abuser (emotional, not physical) in a past relationship and this helps understand my responses. If I may add, I don't think it's all that controversial or hard to believe. I think it's fairly accepted (at least by now) that depression, anxiety (and most other things you mentioned, if not all) are coping/defense mechanisms that our mind activates when faced with certain threats (or things it perceives as threats). That said, thank you for the uploads. Hopefully, I'll have made some progress by the end of this playlist

[@ckay9006]

Okay let's start this and start winning hopefully ..👌👍💖

[@derekjones3596]

Thanks for publishing this. I’ve seen some of this material in a course I purchased from you, but I’ve been wanting to share it with someone I can’t convince to go out and purchase the course. I find this all really helpful!

[@jenvelasquez707]

Great f...... presentation! I’ve been watching and learning from you for years. This was so good you explained it in such a way that anyone can understand.

[@carolinef4583]

Your explanations are amazing and your videos and courses have played a massive part helping me get to grips with my CPTSR. This knowledge needs to get into parenting/education etc to help stop young children being treated and conditioned to end up as the next generation with CPTSD. Thanks for your amazing work - your understanding of both narcissistic abuse and CPTSD, and ability to explain it is life changing

[@janicemurphy4373]

Richard you’re brilliant you really are , to add to this we were not to ever experience any of this, but we do sadly,were we to throw all our anxiety on the superior one, we as humans cannot live like this without there being a really negative 👎 effect on us we are not built to live like this !!!!! This is the result of evil and many other things!!!! Beautiful information makes me more and more know this!!!!!!!!

[@amothergoddess2774]

it came together for me, my depression, anxiety, social anxiety, such a relief to at least know where it came from, swimming helps me to calm the f.... down and lifts my mood! its the quick way! just started listening to all richards videos, learning loads!

[@allenthomas7755]

You’re an amazing teacher… I feel like my life has gotten exponentially better just by learning about myself… Before we even get to the techniques… Thank you

[@florentinaduquin8256]

Thank you so much for sharing this! Clear thinking helps me break from my chronic emotional thinking (flashbacks). You are helping me make sense of my own mind. Hopefully I will be able to guide myself into feeling "normal" again.

[@arthurcurry7688]

How do I escape now!!!!!???? Don't want to do this anymore. He is making me sick! He won't stop!

[@victoryamartin9773]

Stop responding.

[@jamesfrancis303]

Amazing.. This is one of the best conceptual frameworks For cpts that I’ve come across.. you are changing lives.

[@andiemcnamara2577]

I'm watching this a year after I first watched it. I'm presently doing the 30 day challenge and this is such an important part of that. I'm delighted to be relearning all the tools I need to change and grow. Thank you Richard. 🙂