Catastrophic Feelings

[Cheetahone]

I realize that I suffer not only from catastrophic thinking, but also from catastrophic feeling. The feeling is anxiety and fear, without any apparent thoughts to trigger those feelings.

Has anyone else experienced this type of anxiety and fear? If yes, please let me know how you have dealt with and/or resolved this catastrophic feeling. Also, please share your thoughts on it.

[teatin]

I've dealt with that many times before so you are not alone. It's extremely scary, however the thoughts never happen. That's what I always tell myself, that "that's not going to happen" then I try to do something else and take my mind off of it. I dont know if thats the answer you are looking for, and I'm sure others will give their experiences. However, you are totally not alone.

[Cheetahone in reply to teatin]

Thanks for replying tetin. Yes, I am talking about feeling anxiety and fear without any thoughts behind them. Online I found that telling yourself to “Stop” or “Quit” can help sometimes, similar to what you mentioned. I will also try to do something to get my mind off it, like you do, so thanks for that.

I do find it comforting to find that I am not alone. It makes me feel like the fear and anxiety is more common than I knew. And, can be managed.

Here’s to a New Year with less catastrophic feeling, and catastrophic thinking.

Take care.

[teatin in reply to Cheetahone]

To a new year with less anxiety! You take care as well.

[2Scared]

Hey there, I've struggled with anxiety for as long as I can remember to the point that I have severe panic attacks and I can't seem to snap myself out of. I know medication isn't for everyone and dosing can be a tedious journey, but honestly comparing my level of anxiety pre and post prozac is incredible. Yeah I still have those ruminating thoughts that are horrifying and make me question reality, but I am much better equipped to try and navigate myself out of that headspace. Are you seeing a therapist? You're not alone love, wishing you peace

[Cheetahone in reply to 2Scared]

Hi 2scared, I appreciate you sharing.

The realization that I am experiencing catastrophic feelings without any explanation has surfaced after about 6 weeks on Sertraline. I know some people have had very negative effects with Sertraline, but I haven’t been that unfortunate. The catastrophic feelings are in a way welcome as it’s another sign that I am finally starting to actually feel something, not just depression. The realization that I have catastrophic thoughts is also a new enlightenment, as it is my beginning to come to terms with my experiences.

I am recently seeing a doctor for the meds, and I am scheduled to start therapy with a therapist in a week. I also read that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help with depression and anxiety so I am hoping for and looking forward to seeing if it works for me.

Thanks for your input, it lets me know that others have had successes with the conditions.

Happy Holidays and good luck with your journey.