I've been reading these posts and noticed no one replied to yours. I also noticed that you are the one that welcomed me here- thank you.

As to the checking, it is so very typical for PTSD. The clinical term is Hyperarousal- always looking to make it safe around you. Left alone it becomes a way of life that can be extremely draining. My husband will sit up in bed, completely asleep, and check out the room.

One thing I read is that you can carry something to ground you in the present- a smooth stone, a piece of soft material, a smell that makes you feel safe- and when symptoms threaten to overwhelm you or you find yourself doing something you don't want to, grab the stone, or whatever you choose, and tell yourself that you are no longer in the danger, you are in the present.

Hope that helps some. I'm still learning.