Introduction

[Lynda23]

Hi everyone,

I am trying something new as i have never tried a support group. My name is Lynda and i am 23. I recently was diagnosed with panic disorder, agorophobia, and depression. I have dealt with this my entire life but just recently realized that the way i feel is not how all my friends feel. My treatment is in the early stages but i hope that your support can help me continue on the right path.

[Lostjoy]

Hello Lynda23,

I've been here for a few months. I've found this site very helpful to be able to connect with others who are having similar issues.

I hope it helps you as well.

Best wishes

[Nona83]

Hello Lynda, I am also new to this group and have never thought about joining a support group. I have been suffering from severe anxiety and panic disorder. I had anxiety roughly 10 years ago. However it was once in a blue moon. Over the last year they have been really bad. Just about everyday. In the early stages on mine I tried natural things such as essential oils and meditation. I then started therapy, did that for about 6 months. With all these thing it did nothing for me. So I had to get help from my Dr. It took several months to get on a medication that helps some. I still get them a few times a weeks. Sometimes they are mild and I can control them with breathing exercises and sometimes they are sever and just have to hide in my room for a few days. Just keep your head up and know it will get better.

[Lynda23 in reply to Nona83]

I have been taking medication since November which has helped a lot but like you i still have good days and bad days. I do continue to use essential oils and relaxing music but sometimes that doesnt help either. I try to stay positive because if you let it win it is defeating and creates an endless cycle. Thanks for your support.

[MadelynMae]

Hey there Lynda,

Today is my first day on here and I just want to say I relate so much to your post. I am also 23 and suffer from crippling anxiety and depression; I have been diagnosed as Bipolar. I also thought that it was a normal feeling most people experienced, but recently learned that my friends and family don't feel these ways as I do. After my recent diagnosis, I have been too hesitant to start any treatment. If you're willing, I'd love to know how you feel about your treatment..... I am afraid that it will change who I am overall as a person and that I will become even more numb to myself and my life than before. Forgive me, I know how ridiculous and silly I sound. I suppose I'm just afraid of change, and haven't had many positive experiences with receiving help from doctors for mental health. I just want to say thank you for sharing here, it's nice to know that I'm not the only young woman who feels this way. I really hope that your support and treatment grows and thrives.

[Lynda23 in reply to MadelynMae]

I would love to talk to you about treatment... it isnt silly at all. It is a scary choice to make and the anxiety we suffer with does not make decision making easy. Has your doctor recommended anything? It is great to know that i am not alone. That helps me more than anything. Let me know some of your questions about treatment.