Finding ways to cope

[lostinanxiety]

I'm new to this forum. I'm glad I was able to find other people that understand the terror of anxiety. I've suffered from severe anxiety for the last 2 years and it is nice to know that I'm not alone in this.

[ReardenSt33l]

You are definitely not alone

[lostinanxiety in reply to ReardenSt33l]

Thanks for the support.

[veeeeeeee]

I have suffered with Social Anxiety Disorder for 3 years and I am surprised at how comfortable I’ve been talking to people on here about my Anxiety and depression. It is helpful to have people that know what you’re dealing with.

[lostinanxiety in reply to veeeeeeee]

Good to know that this has been a positive experience for you. I hope it is helpful for me as well.

[Marshall64]

You can also Google to see if there are any support groups in your area. I go to some for bipolar and depression. A lot of people there also have anxiety. It is good to be around others where you can be yourself.

[lostinanxiety in reply to Marshall64]

I have looked up some support groups and plan to join. Thank you for the suggestion.

[Marshall64 in reply to lostinanxiety]

That is good. Don't worry about being nervous (everyone is at first) but people are welcoming. You don't have to speak if you don't want. Sometimes I don't but listening to others gets me out of my head.

[rando1000]

You can do it! I've suffered from Generalized Anxiety Disorder since age 17; this year I turn 48! The point is, you can develop coping mechanisms to not just survive, but thrive and live a productive and reasonably happy life. There will be hard times, but there will also be times when you know you can handle it, and when you feel almost like you've won the battle.

[lostinanxiety in reply to rando1000]

Thanks for the support. I am working on developing coping mechanisms and focusing on things that make me feel happy.

[higherpurpose]

I am so glad made the choice to join a support group such as this. We are here with you and for you. You are not alone. You can message me if you want to vent or whatever. Anxiety is an ugly disease that many suffer from. Therapy helps and sometimes, even medications. I am praying for you. Take care.

[lostinanxiety in reply to higherpurpose]

Thank you. I really feel like this support group is going to help me in the process. Just seeing the responses and knowing that I'm not alone in this makes me feel hopeful.