Hi Janet,

Welcome.

Interesting post.  As with the recent "anger" threads, seems we CP's are a
"volatile" jangle of humanity.


Beth and Trisha did good a job as any pointing to the sources of startle.

There's likely no cure, mostly amelioration.  "SR" ebbs and flows over a
lifetime.  Age and experience, humor, learning to go with the flow and jumps
of life's jack-in-the box tendencies, reduce startle frequency and
intensity.

You might learn and practice meditation, deep breathing, shifting attention
and focus.  I find premeditation (thinking through a situation:
"pre-directing" (rehearsing) my behavior and responses, practicing "letting
go") useful.  Medications may be helpful, though they have their downsides.
Try herbals (Karla, Mag, suggestions?), limit caffeine, get sufficient
sleep, rest.

CP offers limited results.  So does life.  As I'm discovering anew
affirmative self acceptance primes the serenity which centers, soothes, and
calms.

You're fine as you are.  Next time you glance in the mirror appreciate the
beauty reflected.

Welcome again.   Thanks for prompting this "he" point of view.

Hugs,

ISM


Date:    Sat, 27 Feb 1999 19:47:09 -0600
From:    Janet Mifflin <[log in to unmask]>
Subject: Sensitive startle reflex

Dear group,

This is my first posting to the list.  I too am a CP with a very
sensitive startle reflex.  I really can relate to the experiences posted
so far.  Potentially anything will make me jump:  a ringing telephone,
someone coming up behind me, a professor pounding the lectern when
making a point, etc.

I just started a new job a few weeks ago.  My new co-workers aren't used
to my jumpiness.  I'm always more jumpy in a new environment.  It's
getting frustrating.

Has any CP with this sensitivity found anything that *he or she* can do
to help this?

Thanks,
Janet