Anxiety has risen its ugly head again.

[Goodwill1954]

I came 500 miles to visit my mom in an assisted living facility for Thanksgiving. Upon my visit, my mom tested positive for Covid-19, then my wife, then I did. I am stuck in the boondocks of Virginia for a week of quarantine. I have had panic attacks every day in spite of my antidepressants. My father died 2 months ago, also. Any advice to help me attain some calmness.

[Krn210]

A good one that I need to remind myself of often…although uncomfortable anxiety cannot hurt you. You are stronger than you think, and this will pass, despite what your mind might try telling you.

[Goodwill1954 in reply to Krn210]

Thank you for your kind response. I’m trying to “get a grip.” It’s very challenging and uncomfortable.

[Krn210 in reply to Goodwill1954]

I challenge you to be kind to yourself. It’s ok that anxiety is there. It’s just your body and mind trying to keep you safe. You are safe. All is well. The less you resist the easier it will pass. I believe in you. ❤️

[Starrlight in reply to Krn210]

This is so nice. ❤️

[gajh]

I am so so sorry for all you are going through. What do you have available to you for distraction? Anything to read, tv, movies, music, YouTube guided meditation? How ill are you? Can you get outside for a walk? Is your wife supportive of you? I am glad you have found your way here. Hopefully it will bring some comfort to you just knowing that you are not alone with your anxiety. Please take care of yourself and get well soon.

[LadyZen]

The boondocks of Virginia has some nice trails. Can you take a hike or a walk? It's a bit chilly these days, but maybe you can get some space from everyone.

[Marysblue]

Sorry you're having panic attacks and anxiety. If you don't have any medicines with you maybe you can take a half a Benadryl. You can't exercise cuz you're sick. Deep breathing, meditation, I like the free insight Meditation app , taking a hot relaxing bath to get your mind off it. Watch a good movie or TV show. There are also calming teas you can buy like tension Tamer or chamomile.You've been through a lot take care of yourself and be nice to yourself if you can.

[designguy]

As Krn210 said, what has helped me and even when I had covid is to be kind and compassionate with myself and keep reminding myself that i was ill and it's ok to feel like crap but I will feel better. A lot of our anxiety is caused by denying our normal fears and emotions and fighting them. Also when we don't feel good it tends to amp up our anxious thoughts so be aware of them and remind yourself that they are lies.

[SayNOtoPanic]

You’re dealing with A LOT. Lifting you in prayer. One thing at a time. Take it easy on yourself. Focus on this too shall pass and you will feel better soon. Hopefully your wife and mom will follow as well in feeling better. Try to meditate and just say some positive affirmations or gratitude statements. You’re awesome for getting out there to see your mom. Hope you feel better soon Goodwill.

[punkster]

Wow, that is rough. I have health anxiety, particularly when it comes to Covid. If I were you, I would do things that take my mind off of the fact that I am sick. Watch TV, listen to music, talk to people on the phone, surf on the computer (don't read anything related to Covid), do puzzles, etc. The good news is that you will recover and then you won't have to worry about Covid for about 10 months (the latest research shows that infection provides about 10 months of immunity).

[scansnap]

for most people, antidepressants are not the best way to treat anxiety. You might want to try basic relaxation techniques, such as meditation, mindfulness, deep, breathing exercises, and read a book or two on how to deal with anxiety. I usually recommend the book Feeling Good by David Burns, but there are many books on dealing with anxiety available online. Do your research before buying this kind of book because some of them are good, some of them are bad, and most of them are watered-down pop psychology.

I hope you will be able to find some relief from your anxiety.

[Downinil]

So very sorry for your loss. My heart goes out to you. If I put myself in your shoes I would remind myself that very traumatic things have happened to me in the past but I’m still here. I don’t expect you to feel alright because of this but at least you can take comfort in knowing this will pass. Life will get easier day by day if we keep a positive self dialogue. I lost my Mom and my husband then my fiancé. It gets a little easier every day. You will make it through this and come out stronger for enduring it.

[Goodwill1954]

Thank you to everyone for your kind and supportive replies. You are all beautiful people.

[bluesky85]

hi Goodwill.I understand where you are going though, thank you for being here.Getting help from other people is a big step,have you heard of Nami or heypeers.com. I found those are interesting and find our communities there,I hope it helps you to cope with your depression