Suffering more each day

[FMsocial]

Hi! I am also new. I'm a grandma suffering from depression and social anxiety which started when I was very young. I could use any tips you can give me to get better. Been in therapy for about four years.

[vishugurdasani]

THIS TOO SHALL PASS AWAY

[Marquis784]

Has your therapist offered you any suggestions as to what might help you in social situations?

The most helpful tips are the ones that require practice. That is...meditation, deep breathing exercises, guided meditation, yoga, walking, positive affirmation....working in building a positive self image. There aren't really any tips since this is a life long situation as you know. Working through what triggers your anxiety can help you get control over it so it doesn't overwhelm you.

There are many helpful sites and apps which can help with learning meditation and self acceptance. Hay House has a collection of authors who provide inspiring suggestions for those struggling. I have found many of them helpful. Everyone is different so you have to figure out what brings you peace.

[FMsocial in reply to Marquis784]

My self esteem is out the window. I'm going to check out some of the apps and see if there's something there for me. How long before you started feeling better?

[Marquis784]

Some iPhone apps I use are: Calm which has soothing sounds and helps with breathing techniques. Breathe is a helpful one for learning to meditate. Insight Timer also provides some guided meditation. Right now Optah&Deepak have a free 21-day online meditation series. It's called Hope in Uncertain Times. They have an app as well.

It doesn't happen overnight. I have to make a conscious decision and effort everyday to stay ahead of my anxiety. Some days better than others. The key is to have a plan for what will help in an "emergency" by working on coping skills that work for you.