New and struggling

[danceanddogs]

Hi all, I'm new to this community. Have had bouts of anxiety in the past and am having one again and am really having a hard time. I've started counseling and medication but can somebody please tell me it gets better? I'm trying so hard to be patient while my medication and anxiety-management tools get up to speed but am struggling.

[kittenkisses91]

It will get better. I just recently got depressed as well, and I got some new medicine and I quickly noticed positive results! It does take a while for the medicine to kick in and start working but by going to therapy and taking medication I'm sure you're going to feel better soon.

You may have to be patient and try a couple of different medications but just know that it will get better and something will work. In the meantime try to stay active and do things you enjoy.

[danceanddogs in reply to kittenkisses91]

Thank you! This is comforting to hear.

[quitter333]

Depends on a person how and when it gets better. If you had it and it went away and now is back you probably do noy suffer from some debilitating invalidity but rather get overwhelmed by bullshit and stress and it gets you down. Human reacts to stress either by highwiring and focusing or distracting oneself or deeling extremely tired.

My impromptu advice - goal driven life cures A LOT of problems almost all. Setting a goal and just giving in to the thought that now this goal holds absolute priority!! over anything in your life is a bit scary thought but trust yourself and do it.

.. do not underestimate when I say priority - it will be a mindset so empty of anything useless so when you will be tired you will not want to play some videogame but you will want to relax by getting closer to your goal.

..

Do not think priority means losing life - to achieve a goal you will need to socialize sleep relax eat healthy. Anything that makes you better, well rested etc. All to achieve your goals.

..

Once you set your mind you will feel absolutely free. Nothing will faze you - your goal will be your only concern and instead on anxiety you will only think about methods to get to your goal one step closer.

..

It sounds robotic but its not. You'll realize very quickly it makes you into a better more interesting and respected pwrson than the usual goalless life.

Once you get one small victory move on to next.

...

Start by small goals. Something you can achieve in a day or two like readin a book. Then you will go on and on - bodybuilding, getting education, getting certain job etc. You will achieve it.

[pink83737]

It does get better, I PROMISE! It might not seem like it right now but it does. Keep up with self care and keep yourself busy

[danceanddogs in reply to pink83737]

Thank you so much!

[Jeff1943]

Good, you have done something to help yourself, the days of your anxiety and depression are numbered.

When we are lost in a maze of mental anguish and have family to support and a living to earn then medication is absolutely right. Remember it doesn't get up to speed for a month or so but meds bring welcome respite. But they rarely bring recovery, sometimes but rarely, when we stop taking them the old feelings can return.

Talking things through with a good counsellor should bring understanding and reassurance and a plan to recover your quiet mind once more.

Danceanddogs, ask yourself: what caused your anxiety attacks past and present? Something happened to unsettle your mind and sensitise your nerves. A job you hate. A toxic relationship. Overwork. Disappointment. Grief. Loss. Find that cause and neutralise it if it's still distressing you. Be ruthless and put yourself first. Unfinished business will just prolong your discomfort.

In addition to your therapy cast your net wide. Read everything you can find about anxiety and the nervous exhaustion that causes depression.

Read self-help books, listen to YouTube and download material from the web.

You will learn to stop fighting (it only causes more tension and strain and fixes nothing), you will discover that anxiety has its limitations and much of your fear is exaggerated by your own imagination.

You may well find that ceasing to struggle, agreeing to coexist with the bad feelings for a limited time, reduces tension and and moderates your fears giving tired nerves a chance to rest and recover.

You aren't going to feel like this forever, you can reclaim your life and by doing something you have taken a giant first step. I wish you God's speed on that journey.

[danceanddogs in reply to Jeff1943]

Thank you so much, this was very reassuring to read. I’m hoping to uncover and address both with my counselor and on my own the various underlying stressors.

[chloe09]

Hang in there it will get better. It takes time to find the right medication and dosages. I know it seems like an eternity when waiting for everything to level out, but it will happen. Try to keep focused and positive that good days are just around the corner. I am here anytime to talk with if you want.

[danceanddogs in reply to chloe09]

Thank you so much. I’ve had a tough day and it is so nice to see such an encouraging message.

[chloe09 in reply to danceanddogs]

Remember tomorrow is another day, and hopefully a much better day for you.

[Lin1944]

Hi, I have been having bouts of anxiety for 24 years and they always pass. At the time you think you will never be happy again but you will I promise. Try to do as much as you usually do, I know it’s very hard. Best thing for me is being with friends and chatting. Get well soon from Lin xx

[danceanddogs in reply to Lin1944]

Thank you! That’s encouraging to hear. I’m having a much better day today, and am just trying to keep in mind to be patient, and my improvement may not be linear. I’m sure I’ll have more down days as I recover but am working on my coping skills.

[Lin1944]

Hi again as you are recovering you will have good days and bad days but at least every day is not bad one. Eventually you will be happy again and it’s such a relief to wake up without palpitations, dreading the day ahead, and all the anxiety symptoms. It will pass x

[MsJazzy]

I'm so glad that you are seeking medical help and counseling. While, we really should no make promises, those types of intervention have been found to be beneficial in improving anxiety and depression. You are on the right track. I pray that the treatment options that you are planning to do will be effective and address the root issues that are preventing you from experiencing joy and peace. Keep persevering and don't give up.