Can be hell

[Bluebaja]

Anxiety can be hell on earth. I suffer from GAD. It feels like a hellish circle of worry. I don’t know how it starts and am never sure what really ends the “episodes”. We who suffer severe anxiety can look 100% normal to those around us. “What do you mean you aren’t well - you look fine” they’ll say. Meanwhile we are being torn up inside. I have suffered extended and severe periods of anxiety for 30 years now. Sometimes the episode will last for days or sometimes many months. I have had thoughts of suicide several times. I have been in group therapy, individual therapy, had biofeedback, tried meditation and taken ever med under the sun. In spite of it all, I succeeded in a stressful career and retired early. Of all the things in my life I am proud of - standing up to this affliction is at the top. It may have broken me down for a day, a week or even a month at a time, but here I am. I know I appreciate life more for the pain I have had to overcome. And I have zero expectations I won’t have to deal with it again in the future. That’s why I’m here. I will help any way I can to help those of you suffering, because one day in the future I will need your help.

[gilded_masquerade]

Thank you for sharing your story. This was absolutely beautiful to read, I'm glad you're thriving despite the circumstances.

It's always good to see others doing well and their best.

Thank you again, and stay strong ❤️

[Bluebaja in reply to gilded_masquerade]

And you stay strong also.

[AngieBrooke]

Anxiety is hell on earth and I have only suffered a few episodes, the last severe attack saw me in the hospital. My hat's off to you for coping with ongoing anxiety. You are truly a survivor!

[Bluebaja in reply to AngieBrooke]

There were times, if I could go back in time - I should have been in the hospital. I have read how they accomplish so much more in such a shorter period of time. Hindsight of course......

[Southpark]

I really admire you. You are an encouragement to all of us. I am where you are...lots of painful anxiety and depression. People really don’t understand. My faith in God is what is holding me up. But it is so hard to live like this. Have to get off. I’m fallimg asleep. Will be back again. May God strengthen you all🙏🙏