I'm new here, 28 years old with SAD,GAD and MDE.

[PhotoJaneA]

I was recently diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety and a Major Depressive Episode. Thinking back on my life i believe i have been suffering from Social Anxiety and possibly depression for more then a decade. I used to self medicate as a teenager with bad choices, and then i self medicated with alcohol whenever i was in a social situation as an adult. I want to stop using alcohol as a crutch in social situations, mainly because the after effects aren't worth it (massive increase in anxiety and depression). I don't drink often because i don't put myself in social situations other then visiting family and maybe seeing my friend once or twice a year. Looking back i can see how these issues have seriously affected my life. I have been at the same job since i was 16, i have tried to go elsewhere but I'm a complete mess during interviews. Now i'm just comfortable and have lost the will to care. I also only have 1 friend who i barely see but luckily i do have a boyfriend of 7 years so I have some companionship. I have a hard time posting on social media unless its my photography. Replying to messages and texts causes me anxiety most of the time. My life just seems to be passing me by, without me actually living it. I want this ache in my chest, feeling like i can't breath, constant thoughts of embarrassing past experiences that don't matter to stop. I want to have goals and dreams again and actually have the will to work towards them. I want a social life but i hardly know where to start. I just started medication 2.5 weeks ago, joined this group and started making plans for events and outings. This is my beginning to hopefully a happy and fuller life. I just have a lot of work to do to get there.

[Addds]

Hi there! I’m 28 with GAD, panic attacks and mild depression! You’re not alone! Sometimes, I too think back and I’m like wow, I have had anxiety attacks before, i just didn’t know that’s what was happening until recently! I have recently started listening to this podcast on my phone called The Anxiety Guru! I feel as though the podcast is helping me quit a bit. The gentleman, Paul, does a great job at describing symptoms and what can be done. Listening to him and emails and concerns that he gets sent in made me feel like, wow. I’m not alone either. And hearing his success stories gives me the feeling of awe! Like I too, will get through this! 💕 if ever you need to talk, you can message me! Enjoy your day!

[lovetodance2018]

It sure sounds like you are taking the right steps to feeling better. Reaching out on this forum, starting medication, and planning outing are all great things. You also mentioned you share your photography. It is terrific you have a hobby as well. Anytime you want to share your pictures, I would love to see them. Know you are not alone. There are people here who understand and care. I struggled with depression on and off for over 20 years, however, with the right medication and counseling I learned how to manage the depression. It takes time to find the right medication and counselor. It may not happen right away. Stay strong and know you will get better with the right help. It has been over two years since I have struggled. Part of that was not being too hard on myself, giving myself a break, and knowing I have a voice and am important. I also prayed regularly and journaled my concerns which helped take them off my mind. I will be praying for you. Keep in touch and let us know how you are doing. Hugs!

[Ssooff]

YES!! The first thing you need is to decide you want a change. Believe it or not that’s a huge thing. There are also supporting groups where you can meet personally people that is going through the same. You should try going to one.

[8518114]

I'm new too and even though I could be your mom, I can totally relate. I just feel I'm too old for this. You know, for this to be happening to me. I have PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other stuff I've been taking medication for years and it seems sometimes that I can't catch a break. What you wrote is very interesting and so close to me that I wish I knew what to do too.

[more2lif3]

Hello PhotoJaneA, I’m so sorry for what you’re going through all these years. I’m glad that you have found this place to be able to share your thoughts and acknowledge the things you’re struggling with and seeking ways to help yourself. That’s the first step to change and I commend you for your courage.

There are a lot of people that are going through what you are going through and some sadly gives up. Please don’t. Remember that there’s more to life than what you currently see. I know your struggle with anxiety prevents you from meeting other people, but maybe you can start with one trusted friend or even a family member. It will help to surround yourself with people that will do life with you. Uplift you, help you to stay accountable, and encourage you during difficult times. Of course, this will require you to put some effort, but as you do, you will see the fruits of your labor. Take it one day at a time. Don’t beat yourself up if you didn’t accomplish everything on your list, but acknowledge that as you become intentional in making changes for yourself, you will be grateful you have come out of your comfort zone because that means you’re just one step closer to freedom from isolation.

I truly believe that there’s a reason for everything, and I hope someway, somehow you will discover that your story isn’t over yet. There was a message I heard the other day that really stuck to my heart, and I’m hoping it will encourage you to hold on to that still small voice deep in your heart, that whispers, you are precious and loved. My friend, do not be afraid to face the days ahead. There’s nothing perfect in this life, but know that YOU ARE VALUABLE more than you will ever know. I truly believe in my heart that you can and will come out of this. Fear is a liar running out of breath. Remember that brave people don’t stop hearing the voices of fear, but they do stop listening to it. I hope these articles I came across with will help you overcome this journey, bit.ly/2jcCm6F and bit.ly/2yDB7l6. I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, that you will ignore and shut those voices out, that tells you otherwise.