Going downhill fast

[Ffrank]

Hi all, I'm new here and new to long term anxiety. Started about 3 months ago and getting progressively worse since. Medication, therapy, meditation, exercise and diet have helped somewhat, but I'm still suffering. The worst part is not getting nearly enough sleep. Please tell me there's a light at the end of this tunnel.

[ReardenSt33l]

There is always a light at the end of the tunnel know that you aren’t alone in this fight - none of us are!

What seems to help me the most is talking with a close friend. Just opening up and becoming closer. I hope you have someone to confide in

[Ffrank in reply to ReardenSt33l]

Thanks ReardenSt33l, I do open up to a friend or two and they are helpful sometimes. But other times I feel like I'm overburdening them with problems that they can't relate to.

[Agora1 in reply to Ffrank]

I hear you Ffrank..

[Hidden]

Hi Ffrank!

I’m afraid that I’m suffering in the same way as you are. I sleep no more than an hour or two and I’m back up. I have restless legs syndrome and that complicates things for me. I’m starting a new 7a-7p job this Monday and something tells me I’m not going to have this figured out by than! I know this doesn’t help you at all, but I wanted you to know that you’re not alone. Wishing you sweet dreams!’

[Ffrank in reply to Hidden]

Thanks Grat and good luck with that new job!

[Hidden]

Their is a light. I had panic disorder and was agoraphobic for fourteen years. I was able to overcome it and am panic free. Don’t get discouraged. It isn’t easy and their will be good and bad days. I didn’t have professional help, but you do. Hang in there! Keep fighting.

[Agora1]

Hey Ffrank, there is not only a light at the end of the tunnel but a Rainbow as well.

Together we will all get through this.

[Ffrank in reply to Agora1]

Thanks Agora1!! That's so kind and gives me a warm and calming feeling.

[peanutbuttercup]

There is light and it does get better. Has your doc given you anything to help you sleep?

[Ffrank in reply to peanutbuttercup]

He's given me Xanax (.5mg). Seems to be helping. I'm worried about becoming too dependent on it.

[Hephzibah2014]

I'm so glad you are reaching out for help and talking about your situation! You are on the right track! I struggled with anxiety most of my life, as well as many of my family members. There is always a light in the darkness. I would have to say that along with all the physical things, my faith is what really changed things for me. I was wondering, have you talked to your therapist about the side effects of your medication? I know from experience that sometimes some meds can cause more anxiety and it can take a while to find one thats right for you. Ive also learned that I can't have any energy drinks and have to limit my coffee drinking unfortunately. I'll be praying for you to find the right answers for you. I read this article ( bit.ly/2KJJCDc ) recently and thought I would pass it along.

[Ffrank in reply to Hephzibah2014]

Thanks Hephzibah2014! I've only seen my primary doc and a therapist who suggested I speak to a psychiatrist. Primary doc prescribed .5mg Xanax. It's helping, but I'm concerned about becoming too dependent on it. Definitely will schedule appt with a psychiatrist.

[Hephzibah2014]

My husband had very bad reactions to Xanax. He had to go off of it very slowly. I would definitely talk to your doctor about it. My husband said it made his anxiety/panic attacks worse which made him feel dependent on it. You should never stop taking a med like that without talking to your doctor.

[Ffrank in reply to Hephzibah2014]

Thanks for the warning. I've always been very hesitant about all medications in general and after hearing about some of the side-effects of anxiety/depression meds, I proceeding with caution.