How do I cope?

[Jenana]

I have major debilitating anxiety. I am extremely paranoid and indecisive. I have trouble making decisions and constantly second guess everything I do which makes it difficult to enjoy life. Due to feeling inadequate I tend to avoid anything requiring a decision. I have a wonderful husband and baby and need to find happiness.

I’m trying to find a good therapist or psychologist but my uncertainty is getting in the way. There are so many options and I don’t even know where to start. I’ll be paying out of pocket and want to make sure that they can help me get better.

I appreciate any insight on how to get better.

[Mrad]

I completely understand. I have a great life and family and often feel guilty for my anxiety. We can make it through! Make a decision everyday, even if it is a small one. Rejoice every second that you feel in control.

[Jenana in reply to Mrad]

Thank you for the inspiration.

[_Denise_]

I can relate. First, how old is your baby is it possible you have postpartum depression?

As far as the out of pocket issue, I'd say look into either your county mental health facility as they are based on income & need. I would also (pride in check) look to see if you may qualify for insurance or any type of state assistance. These are both resources I have utilized in times of need. I hope you find some relief soon & know that you are not alone in this battle or your feelings

[Jenana in reply to _Denise_]

Thank you for the info. My baby is 5 months old. I suffered from anxiety my entire life and recently quit my job to stay home with baby. I got off meds when I was pregnant. We wouldn’t qualify for any aid. Since I’m paying out of pocket I want to make sure I get the best help for my money. There are tons of therapists, psychologists, social workers which makes it very difficult to find the right one.

[_Denise_ in reply to Jenana]

It is always tricky to find a professional you can feel confident sharing the darkest regions of your being with. Maybe, after utilizing your preferred method of research & narrowing the field, you could do consultations w your top picks to see how you interact w them. Do you know anyone in your area who does see a professional? Whether or not you do, I know after my youngest was born I talked to my OB. He was very helpful in directing me toward docs/practices that he believed were reputable, trustworthy, & fit my situation.

Women dont always think of this option but when you consider it, this doctor has guided you through a pivotal, deeply personal, life changing event. If you trust them w your life & the life of your child, you can trust them to provide advice. They usually know more about the doctors than the avg civilian does anyway. Its worth a shot, may just prove to be incredibly worthwhile! Sending all the well wishes & positive vibes, I can muster, your way.

[seekingthegood]

I would first think about what kind of therapy you want to do like cbt or dbt or talk therapy etc and then look up a bunch of psychologists/therapists in your area and see not only how they're rated but also the bios they write and what they specialize in to try to find someone whose both well reviewed, does the kind of therapy you want to try and also seems like you would get along with

[Jenana in reply to seekingthegood]

Thank you. There are tons that specialize in the type of therapy I’m looking for. Since I’m paying out of pocket I want to make sure I get the best help for my money.