Not doing well but I managed to get m... - Anxiety and Depre...

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Not doing well but I managed to get myself to paint

Starrlight profile image
64 Replies

Please pray or send good vibes because I really need them. I’m scared because of the feelings and thoughts I’m having and I just am not feeling like myself, not right, at all. I am tired of living this life. I messed with my meds I can’t seem to cut down much on my benzos; if I do I feel like I’m loosing it.

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Starrlight profile image
Starrlight
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64 Replies
Agora1 profile image
Agora1

I'm glad you were able to refocus for a while. I've always loved hearts.At one time, I was called "The Queen of Hearts" because I wear a different

one every day. Your picture shows the "love" you have in your life for your

children. Hang onto that thought. We've got you :) xx

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toAgora1

❤️

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toAgora1

I’m trying to hang on I don’t know who I am anymore

Agora1 profile image
Agora1 in reply toStarrlight

You are such a beautiful person inside and out. A loving mother who hasalways put her children's happiness first.

You can't help this disease that takes hold of you from time to time.

That's not the Starrlight I've come to love and respect.

I pray that these feelings and thoughts will leave you just as fast as they

overcame you. I know what Benzos can do to the mind. It's a powerful drug

but you are stronger. You must believe in that. Sending you good vibes :) xx

Dubba61 profile image
Dubba61 in reply toAgora1

AHH...Queen of Hearts, is lovely!

Agora1 profile image
Agora1 in reply toDubba61

:) xx

CL3V3R-G1RL profile image
CL3V3R-G1RL

I know how you feel like you're loosing it. But you're not. You are still here ❤️

That is some beautiful work. I'm glad you have a creative outlet.

I know it's rough but we can weather this storm. I know you can do this! And of course you always have this place 🌹❤️

There's a good chance cutting back on benzos is contributing to your bad time. You were so brave to do it now, with all the trouble you've had lately! You deserve a hand getting through the woods.

It's not just you Starrlight. My experience cutting back tells me you do get scared. You take them to manage anxiety and fear. They take over for your body doing it alone... and then you need more benzos to get that effect. When I cut back, I was awake and frightened for a long time. That's why it is recommended to set your own schedule to cut back very slowly. They're nasty things. Here's a site that may help you. It's about "The Ashton Method".

benzo.org.uk/manual/

I lose myself in your paintings. The emotion comes through clearly. You did manage it. Brave girl, it's beautiful.

Dolphin14 profile image
Dolphin14 in reply toNothing_but_books

Ashton is spot on with her method. I believe in her work.

❤️🐬

c-mac profile image
c-mac

I love the painting! I've done just enough illustration work (mostly charcoal and graphite) to see what an amazing relationship you have with your paintbrush. How you can know what your paintbrush is going to do and have it as an extension of yourself, and still, I bet, have it surprise even you.

I haven't used anti-anxiety medicine, but I do get my own level of anxiety, and I use meditation and cardio to deal with it. And I think my weighted blanket helps, too. I used to do a lot of yoga, and that was probably the most powerful, but it's also the most expensive. But these days meditation is what I turn to, and ten minutes of it, led by the author of the Waking Up App, always seems to calm me down, and prevent my anxiety from getting worse, or even leading to hypomania.

And you know what has really helped in the past? Reading something fun for 20 or 30 minutes each day. Just knowing that I can set aside time for it makes things seem like they must not be so bad. Also, getting immersed in another world lets me stop ruminating on this one. And also, having my brain slow down and read one word ... then another word ... then another, and they make a picture -- the slow pace calms me, I think.

I bet painting has some of those same thought-regulating qualities -- so if you're not worried about judging what you make, then it could be calming, too. My whole life I used to play piano whenever I was anxious, but I stopped when the pandemic started -- I really don't know what that's about.

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toc-mac

Reading what, now? I try to read too.

c-mac profile image
c-mac in reply toNothing_but_books

I like sci fi most, I think. As a teenager I was all about fantasy, but I don't find it as "fantastic" to my adult mind as science fiction is. I'm just about to start "American Gods." (But, I'm not really a reader. I wish I made more time for it when I wasn't needing it to treat my stress!)

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toc-mac

Did you read Speaker For The Dead? My current favorite sf.

I like Gaiman too. What was the one about the London underground?

c-mac profile image
c-mac in reply toNothing_but_books

I'll put Speaker on my list! I haven't read Gaiman but I heard his audiobook about norse mythic tales. Mostly the past 10 years I've been reading Stephenson. I read really slowly, which is good when you're trying to distract yourself from anxiety, but it means you don't cover much ground.

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toc-mac

That's a new writer for me. "Stephenson". Which of his books do you recommend?

Oh, by the way. Speaker is a sequel. You don't have to read the first book first to enjoy it, but if you're interested, Ender's Game is the title. (Ya, I know they made a movie. It stinks.) Both of them won both the Hugo and Nebula awards.

I love finding free audiobooks online. When I can't focus to read, I listen.

c-mac profile image
c-mac in reply toNothing_but_books

My goal is to get through this: npr.org/2011/08/11/13908584...

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toc-mac

Thanks! Looks good. How far have you gotten?

Not sure NPR is my favorite go-to for sf recommendations though. How's this?

amazon.com/Science-Fiction-...

Those are the top science fiction short stories "of all time", voted on by the Science Fiction Writers of America.

As I recall, there are three volumes. See what you think, and let me know.

So excited to have another sf reader to chat with!

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toc-mac

There's some terrific stuff in there! (Some clunkers too.)

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toNothing_but_books

Ok thank you I’ll check out the link soon

Roxylox profile image
Roxylox

Lovely art , will pray

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toRoxylox

Thank you Roxylox! Hope you are well

Livelydively profile image
Livelydively

Sending lots of love your way. I hope you find some comfort.

Dubba61 profile image
Dubba61

Nice work! No one would chose to have this illness Starr, but, we all have it and must live with it as best we can. I don't know much about Benzo's but, for now I wouldn't attempt cutting down. So I am just sending you some good Chi, from across the Pond and hope you feel better tomorrow. 🧓🙏

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toDubba61

Dubba, I have to go off ... I am in a hole of addiction now. I’m so low. My husband is helping me by keeping them and only give me what we decide on which is tapering down from week to week. I feel pathetic a lone and like I might die. I took a lot of benzos with alcohol and Propanolol even though I know it can stop my heart this is not like me I’m not me anymore I am slipping away.

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toStarrlight

Starrlight, please show your husband the link I sent you above. Tapering more every week is very painful and you may need an addiction specialist to help if you must do it.

All my good wishes beautiful girl. Yes, you too.

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toNothing_but_books

I did call an addiction specialist it’s just that I feel like I can’t leave my kids they need me here right now getting school courses straight and stuff. This will have to do I believe.

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toStarrlight

In my thoughts...

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toNothing_but_books

I couldn’t view the link ... I’m going to try again

Dubba61 profile image
Dubba61 in reply toStarrlight

Ohh, thats not good! Glad you've got a Hubby that will help though. My best wishes to you.

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toDubba61

Hope you are well

lolanell profile image
lolanell

Starlight you are so talented it’s unbelievable I loved seeing your painting. Please remember what you are feeling is because of a chemical reaction. Call a support person, or go check yourself in if you feel like hurting yourself. I know that sounds harsh, but you need to keep yourself safe. You are a very special person, I wish I could write like you. Please please please ask for help. Let me know how you are doing.

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply tololanell

Awww Thank you so much Lolanell It is morning and I’m struggling. I haven’t taken a benzo yet. But I stepped outside and the nature hearing the crickets and smelling theme plants is a good distraction. I’m afraid to think about how my day will go without usual amount of benzos. Thanks for being here. How are you doing?

Dolphin14 profile image
Dolphin14

⭐️Beautiful painting. You are so talented.

I'm sorry for your struggles. You do have to wean very slowly off benzo..... very slowly. You may be trying to go off too quickly.

Keep painting. It's a great way to express yourself and get " lost" for awhile.

❤️🐬

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toDolphin14

I just saw a goose fly by and it seems he knows where he’s going. I do not. Maybe I will suffer a lot going off the way I am but that’s ok I just want them out of my system. My husband says after one has completed weaning off then it brakes 4 weeks for the brain to normalize. So I look forward to that. (((((( 🐬)))))))

Dolphin14 profile image
Dolphin14 in reply toStarrlight

We chatted in your post yesterday about that goose. Nothing outside of being a goose effects him. Nature.... It's amazing.

You keep at it. 4 weeks isn't bad. Did you read the link NBP posted about the Ashton method?

❤️🐬

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toDolphin14

Thank you. No I couldn’t view the link.

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toStarrlight

If you're having trouble with the link, search "Ashton method", then look for the link from benzo.org.uk.

It has wonderful information about switching to a benzo that stays in your system longer while you're tapering, so you don't get bounced around so much.

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toDolphin14

Goose?

Dolphin14 profile image
Dolphin14 in reply toNothing_but_books

⭐️ Mentions a goose a couple replies up.

❤️🐬

kitchengardener2 profile image
kitchengardener2

Praying you feel better soon. Please do know that you have friends here sending good vibes in your direction. God bless xx

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply tokitchengardener2

Thank you so much! How are you ?

That is such a beautiful painting! You have real talent. You just hang in there, bad days pass even though you can’t imagine feeling better right now. Sending you lots of healing vibes! ❤️

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply to

Thank you. I don’t know how I’ll feel coming out on the other side of benzos Scary. Hope you are doing well!!! How’s life treating you?

in reply toStarrlight

Thank you for asking. The past few days have been somewhat better. I can’t quite explain why. I have managed to get some exercise which I really need to do on a regular basis to feel ok. I’ve managed to get a couple of day of something in. Maybe that helped. I’m sorry you are struggling with your medication. I hate the whole medication thing. I know sometimes it’s necessary but it has be so many drawbacks too!

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply to

Exercise does help tremendously. I love to hike but if I can’t get out I jump on the trampoline with my kids. I’m really glad you’ve found it’s helpful to you and that you’ve been feeling good. I bet it’s linked.

Hope4me1 profile image
Hope4me1

You are in my prayers. I too am not doing well and I am back on my benzos and unfortunately they are not helping much. I am thinking I need more, but am afraid to increase. I know what you are going through and I hope as I hope for myself better days ahead. I try to find things to be thankful for and rely on my support people a little more. Try to keep busy, exercise and take care to nourish your body with healthy foods and lots of water. Take time for self love. We will improve in time. We always do. Hugs💕

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toHope4me1

I hope so. Part of me thinks I’ll be better off without those meds the other part feels I’ll be worse off but well I’ll just do my best to deal with what comes my way. I understand you being hesitant to increase the benzos. I hope the very best for you. I’m here if you ever want to talk.

Hope4me1 profile image
Hope4me1 in reply toStarrlight

Thank you, Starrlight! I hope the very best for your outcome. I’m happy to say I was blessed with a day of very little anxiety and I could smile and feel the joy in life. I was able to drop a dose of my benzo, too. I really only take it when I need it. Sometimes it’s so hard to judge. I am here if you need to talk as well; anytime!❤️

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toStarrlight

It's been such a hard day for me. For some reason, being overheated, pain, and anxiety all get mixed together. I wanted to escape. I wanted a sedative, but I don't want to go farther down that road again. I'm glad your husband is supporting you through this. It's hard. I'm thinking of you.

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toNothing_but_books

I’m so sorry. You are brave and strong. I need to face things.

Nothing_but_books profile image
Nothing_but_books in reply toStarrlight

I understand. I completely support you in your choice.

Overcomer13 profile image
Overcomer13

I’ll be praying for you Starrlight. I finally was prescribed benzos for my severe anxiety, and I’ve been having to take them regularly too. Just try to remember that you won’t always need them, but if you really do right now, that’s okay.

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toOvercomer13

Well I’ve been on them for a long time snd they are causing me problems like my body craves more and I was feeing out of control.I think fit me it’s time to get off of them

Beevee profile image
Beevee

Starlight. Please please visit a website called anxietynomore.co.uk and learn what is happening to you and why. Also read Dr Claire Claire Weekes and practice her teachings in full until it becomes second nature. Then keep practicing more.

You will learn that:

1. You are not losing it. Far from it. It's just anxiety making you think and feel that way. Allow yourself to lose it. Nothing will happen;

2. the old you is not lost, it's just buried beneath the symptoms of anxiety and waiting to resurface once you understand that anxiety is bluffing you and learn to accept and let go instead of recoiling and adding more fear which keeps stopping up your anxiety and creating more if those thoughts and feelings you fear.

3. to stop all those thoughts and feelings, you must let yourself think and feel everything and do absolutely nothing to change any of it.

4. that the most powerful medication to help you overcome anxiety is acceptance.

5. Keep painting and doing all the other normal stuff, despite how you may feel. By continuing to do normal things and letting the anxiety be there without resistance, normal thoughts and feelings will gradually return.

If you follow this advice, recovery is just a matter of when, not if.

Best wishes

Beevee

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toBeevee

Thank you. I’ve been through a lot of anxiety and overcome for instance I no longer have panic attacks. I will get through this pain of withdrawal too. I wonder what I will uncover.

c-mac profile image
c-mac in reply toBeevee

"Allow yourself to lose it. Nothing will happen" -- this spoke to me. I discovered something like it when my Geodon made me anxious all the time at first. Every few months I would realize I was hanging onto a feeling, scared to lose control, and that the hanging on was the most destructive part. So I'd let go of my control and just let my brain run wild. And within moments I would adjust to a new level, some added calm, and more confidence that I got this.

Beevee profile image
Beevee in reply toc-mac

...and that, my friend, is what acceptance is all about. Anxiety only stays around because sufferers wont releasee their grip of it.

I also came across a quote about anxiety which is true. "You wont get better until you stop trying to get better."

It is the trying to do something about it that keeps people stuck in the cycle. Stop trying and do nothing instead but keep moving forward, doing things as if you didn't have anxiety and take it with you for the ride. Recovery is then just a matter of time.

c-mac profile image
c-mac in reply toBeevee

Interesting. I think this is some of the positive effect of meditation, too. "Let go of the narrative that you are the sum of all those thoughts ricocheting around your brain and realize they are just thoughts, they are not you. You don't have to remain true to their pessimism and ill reason to keep your sense of identity. "

Beevee profile image
Beevee in reply toc-mac

Like you say, they are only thoughts. A form of energy passing through but given a much elevated status by the anxiety sufferer because of the almost physical like force that propels them to the forefront of the list of "problems" that the sufferer feels obliged to worry over, stress over and figure out. If anxiety wasnt present, it is highly likely that those thoughts wouldn't even be there or even noticeable.

This energy will keep coming up for release and needs to be released. It's part of the natural healing process but sufferers do all they can to not feel it by avoiding, suppressing and deliberately distracting themselves so that energy stays trapped within.

How can someone be free of anxiety when they are not prepared to feel it?

This is what I am referring to when I say that sufferers of anxiety are not victims because to a very large extent, they are doing it to themselves because they are placing far too much belief in those anxious thoughts and adding morevfuelnto the fire or not allowing themselves to feel anxious without resistance.

I stopped searching for answers and trying to figure if all out when I realised for myself that I all my thoughts were anxious because I had an anxious mind. Nothing more, nothing less. In moments of peace (our natural default) , those anxious thoughts just weren't there. I just learned to let my mind chatter away and observed the chatter instead of getting involved. Gradually, all the symptoms just disappeared.

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toc-mac

I tried what you suggest and it works when i can manage to let myself go and loose control. My body is so tight my mind twists and turns with fears but I let it go because I am holding onto nothing there is nothing I can do...control, there is no reason to... because it doesn’t help anything. Thank you for helping me see in a new way.

c-mac profile image
c-mac in reply toStarrlight

That's wonderful, Starr!

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight in reply toc-mac

You are wonderful c-Mac!!!

Starrlight profile image
Starrlight

Thank you for the prayer. One day at a time. Yes.

Beevee, this makes so much sense. I followed the link you posted earlier and would like to say thank-you. I read until the wee hours of the morning.

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