tough right now

[NewYork2]

Ive been really struggling lately. My anxiety and panics are completely taking control of my life. I’m having uncontrollable panic attacks that are triggered so easily. This has been going on for a while now. I‘ve heard suggestions on here and from my therapist and family but am absolutely terrified of attempting them which also causes more anxiety. Things are really tough right now

[AnxiousSilver]

Anything new in your life recently that has been causing you stress? (besides the obvious with anxiety)

[NewYork2 in reply to AnxiousSilver]

Well I’ve started a new temp job put I don’t think it’s that. During the time period where I’ve had panic attacks I’ve gone through stretches of working/not working and I seem to have the same level of anxiety at work or being at home

[Megapanda]

I am curious on what sort of suggestions you have been given . Is there a way to break them down into smaller more manageable goals ? .

[NewYork2 in reply to Megapanda]

One was to exercise. I used to be very active but ever since my anxiety problems I haven’t been able to stay active and am terrified of attempting any sort of exercise. I’ve been told to try mediation and breathing but I cant even bring myself to even try them…idk it just seems like a challenge to even attempt them

[Megapanda in reply to NewYork2]

It's the starting that is the hardest . I found that I just focused on one thing . So for example if it's exercise , even if on the first day it's just getting my clothes out and that's all I do that's fine it's a step in the right direction . I found once I got going then it's easier to keep going. Also doing the first thing as the longer you leave it the more time you have to think about it . Plus to praise myself for making the effort . Also you can have something to do afterwards that you enjoy so you have another reason to do it . It can be something small like a nice drink or put on your favourite music . Just remember nothing is going to change if you don't make the change . You got this 🐼

[ineedthesun]

I'm so sorry. I've been in this boat several times and just tried something new for the first time that finally helped out a bit. Trying out new things can be so frustrating and hard, but ending the cycle of panic sometimes calls for new approaches. You've got this.

[NewYork2 in reply to ineedthesun]

Thank you. What did you try?

[ineedthesun in reply to NewYork2]

I decided to finally start taking meds which helped me a lot. I don't think I want to be on them forever, but they have helped things become more manageable. I also went to inpatient residential treatment for a month and learned a lot of helpful coping skills and worked through some of my trauma with therapists while I was there. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to ask!

[Hidden]

I happen to be 51 and I think the times we are living in now are tough for a lot of people across the board. A big combination of this Covid pandemic and political problems. I’m not even working at all right now. A lot of stuff I see in the news gives me a lot of anxiety.

[CL3V3R-G1RL]

You are a lot stronger than you think you are 💗

I know panic attacks are scary. You think you are going to die sometimes cause how strong they feel.

But know this, you survived all of them. Gotta keep reminding yourself of that fact. You are still here. Survived 100% of the time. Anxiety is a liar. Sometimes you have to check that vicious b**** 😂 with facts and logical reasoning.

Finding ways to cope and self soothe. Either listening to music, laying on the floor or bed, covered up with a blanket and saying a mantra or singing to yourself. If you're at a place where you can't do these things. There's always a bathroom stall. Take moment to recollect yourself. Talking things over with your therapist. My favorite saying is focus on the step and not the entire staircase. Do little things. Eventually those build up to big things. So if you read things on here and your therapist advise you to try them out. But you're too afraid, that's okay ☺️Maybe there's a compromise. ☺️

Anyways I know you told us your struggling, just know you are among friends. Wishing you the best NewYork2 ❤️

[NewYork2]

Thank you for the help and suggestions

[Grand1972]

Hi NewYork2, I've worked/controlled my anxiety for many years. I will not tell a story, it still comes once in awhile when my life changes from time to time. I'll note a few things my Therapist recommended that always seems to help me get through panic .

1. First of all check your breathing, take deep breaths from bottom of your stomach, breath slowly in and slowly out. I do this for a few min and you may notice some changes.

2. Thought stopping, most of the time if I feel panicky I stop and think what am I thinking. Usually I m thinking something that is a "what if this happens" and those what if never really happen in over 35 years.

3. Consider joining a support group online or in person, This is super helpful just to talk about what is going on in your life. You would be surprised how talking with a friend is so helpful.

4. Relaxing music, yoga, or taking a little walk among nature is helpful.

5. I keep a little sachet filled with lavender for when I need to take a little sniff to ease my tension. I have one in my car.

6. When I was at the peek of my panic for a few months, I was going through a divorce and I lost my house, and my lifestyle changed so much it was a really difficult time for me, so I went on a very mild anxiety medication at that time just to cool my jets a tiny bit. It helped, I had to try a few to find the right one.

7. Consider finding a good Therapist, if your insurance does not cover it, there are some free services out there. With Covid, many seem to be offered.

I hope this information may be helpful. If I may be of any help, please send if a message. I'm new to this platform so I'm not sure if you can send a personal message.

Kindest Smiles/hugs from California