New and worried

[nbee20]

I'm new here. I recently received inpatient help for anxiety & depression. I've had these problems to lessor extent for years but I was able to mask & function, so I never sought help. This time I got extremely paranoid when my anxiety got our of control. I've was doing ok with therapy & medication, but now my anxiety is increasing. I'm worried it could happen again and I'm thinking about my thoughts trying to see if it's happening again. I know I should be working on mindfulness exercises but I'm spending my time worrying something will trigger my anxiety. My therapist also mentioned setting goals to work towards ending therapy & while I agree, it started me worrying about what happens to me when I'm on my own. Would anyone offer suggestions or experiences about transitioning from inpatient to therapy to managing on their own?

[kinikia95 ADAA Volunteer]

I've not been in your situation as far as transitioning but Anticipatory anxiety is particularly cruel and I have definitely been there. We are already anxious about things that will most likely never happen, but it's compounded when we get anxious about potentially being anxious. It's pretty much the definition of a self-fulfilling prophecy but our only chance is to stop it short ( infinitely easier than said than done) I will say that ending therapy sounds like a very bad idea from what you are saying. Setting goals to get better seems like the wise thing now. Only then can ending therapy be a goal. I always say everyone could use a little therapy, it's not a bad thing. I hope someone here can offer some advice on transitioning and I wish I could be of more help. Take care and keep talking with us. I know that's what helps me.

[Hidden]

Was your therapist speaking of ending therapy as an inpatient? Or were they referring to completing it all together as in being totally finished?

If you don't feel totally better then you need to tell your therapist this! Let them know you need to stay in therapy longer. But if they are talking about transitioning to an outpatient office ask them if the person they are referring you to specializes in the area you are having the most trouble with. I'm talking about if the are other reasons as to why you may be experiencing this anxiety and paranoia. There are all sorts of sub specialties. Hang in there and don't let them discharge you from treatment unless you are ready, speaking up is your best helper and you are advocating for your self and your rights.

I wish you the best and always remember to speak up on your own behalf. Nobody will be mad at you actually they will be happy you told them. I can't think of one person who would want to push a patient out the door if they are not feeling better. There are instances where one may not be able to help you anymore with their skills and they will then refer you to a specialist who is capable of doing so. No worries... Promise me and yourself you will be your own advocate and tell your caregiver if things aren't right, okay? Thanks... Much love and peace be with you.