My first post...

[AverageGal1]

I don't think I have had any real physical symptoms of anxiety as far as I know, but I have had a few instances where I was just laying in bed and I kind of feel this serious emotional pain that caused me to feel a lot of discomfort in like my core and throat and I rolled up in a ball and this pain just wouldn't go away for a few minutes. It wasnt very severe but it certainly wasn't pleasant. I feel kind of hopeless and I'm moving a lot of times, especially when my thoughts overtake me. I feel like I shouldn't be crying so often... crying makes me feel better though. Some normal activity is difficult for me because I start feeling very self conscious of what others might think about me. This has caused me to quit certain sports and lose interest in things I usually enjoy... any advice on how to be myself again? Sorry if I sound too sappy.

[Hidden]

Hi AverageGal1, have you tried therapy?, maybe that will help. Since you are always feeling sad maybe you have depression as well. It's good to talk to your doctor about these symptoms, they might be able to diagnose you better and give you a few suggestions.

[AverageGal1 in reply to Hidden]

I have considered it, but I am afraid of the costs that might set my family behind. I don't think our insurance covers it... I am also a bit afraid that my parents would not try to help my situation but would instead just say that I must be doing something wrong... this has happened in the past with different issues so I'm hesitant to repeat. I can try though. Thank you for the reply!

[Hopeful-Tinkerbell]

It sounds like to me you are having a lot of symptoms of depression and anxiety. It is very common. For me it started out that way. Have you asked yourself why you are feeling this way? Those uncomfortable feelings and self conscious or anxious thoughts are you brain playing tricks on you. Mental health challenges are very tricky. I highly recommend you speak with a therapist. It sounds like your anxiety and depression are already having a major affect on your life. A therapist can help you get to the root of these problems, recognize triggers, develop coping skills and relaxation techniques. I know first hand how difficult it can be but please try not to quit your sports. Take comfort in the fact that you have done it before and therefore you can get through it. It’s just your mind playing tricks. It’s called your proof journal. When you are having difficulty with something or fear you look back to see similar experiences that you have overcome. Diet and exercise are the very best thing you can do for any mental health issues. Try to be consciously aware of things you choose not to do because of it and instead power through it. This illness is one that can overtake your life so very quickly. There are so many excellent all natural ways of treating it though. Exercise is important. Idol minds breed negativity and self doubt. Diet. Many foods enhance Serotonin which is a feel good, happy hormone. Take control of it before it takes complete control over you. A lot of it is changing the way you perceive things. You can choose negativity (which is much easier) or choose positivity. “Not all days are good days but there is something good in all days!” Much luck! I’m here if you need to talk with well over 30 years of experience as a patient of mental illness and a medical professional for half of that at least and a caretaker for even more.

[AverageGal1 in reply to Hopeful-Tinkerbell]

Thank you for your reply, hopeful- tinkerbell. You have given me much to think about. I asked my dad about our insurance and he said that if I am diagnosed with anything, treatment would be free. So if I am in fact depressed and have anxiety I will have professional support. Again thank you. It feels like I have a lot of support which makes me feel not completely hopeless.

[Hopeful-Tinkerbell in reply to AverageGal1]

Change hopeless to hopeful! Anxiety and depression is all about how we perceive things! Every day may not be a good day but there is something good in every day. Always look for the good thing! Your insurance is a good thing! It sounds as if your dad may be supportive. That a better than good thing! So you are already on top! Even though you may not see it. Anxiety likes to cloud our perception. Keep fighting! We are here for you!

[AverageGal1 in reply to Hopeful-Tinkerbell]

Thank you so much! The highlight of my day