Anxiety to the 2nd power

[Strongest123]

Hello everyone on here. I’ve had OCD for many years and fell into a deep depression a few years ago. My brother passed away a month ago and I’ve been really struggling with his passing. One thing I’ve noticed is my anxieties been pretty elevated the last few days. I almost feel like a rubber band that’s ready to snap. I’ve also been trying to keep as busy as I can so I don’t think. Thank you. SAMSON.

[b1b1b1]

losing your brother has probably made your existing depression worse. Bereavement counseling can be helpful ( although I personally have not found it helpful - but I guess many have). Therapy and antidepressants can also help. Exercise may also be very helpful. Are you able to take some long walks, especially now that the weather is getting nicer in many places. A long walk gives you a chance to think and maybe grieve for your brother. It will also tire and relax you as well as release some Endorphins.

[Strongest123 in reply to b1b1b1]

Thank you for your support. I haven’t been walking much lately and it’s due to some balance and vertigo issues I’m having. I’ve been a weightlifter all my life, and I’m able to lift, but doing cardio like walking can be difficult at times due to my balance issues.

[b1b1b1 in reply to Strongest123]

Hi Strongest123 - I'm sorry about the balance issues, and you certainly have to be careful about vertigo. Good you can still do the lifting. I assume you have already thought of this, but I will mention it anyway -- therapy and antidepressants. Take care.

[Strongest123 in reply to b1b1b1]

Thank you, and yes I’m on antidepressants and I see a therapist once a week.

[Agora1]

Strongest, losses in our lives can make us feel scared and raise our anxieties.We become aware of our own mortality. Sadness overtakes us which only Time can

heal.

Getting outside and seeing others can make you feel that you are not so alone.

Are the balance and vertigo issues being addressed right now? What does your doctor

say about this problem?

When I use to work out with weights as well as doing water aerobics, I felt fine. That

was because I was breathing deeply and exhaling long and slow.

And yet when I walked from my car to the store, I was off balanced and lightheaded.

For me, it was attributed to my fears. I would find myself not breathing properly while

walking sometimes hyperventilating or actually holding my breath.

It wasn't until I started with my daily meditation and breathing exercises did I learn to

control my symptoms. But you are not me and sometimes there are other issues that

cause vertigo and off balance. But remember that when your body and mind are

filled with sorrow and anxiety all your muscles can contract including the small muscles

down the ear canal which in itself can cause this off balanced feeling.

I'm not a doctor Samson, but can only convey what I went through myself and team of

medical people behind me who assured me of what insurmountable stress can do to our

nervous system. May you heal in your own time and own way my friend. xx

[DaveSpice]

The great Jordan Peterson once advised a young man who had just lost his father, to be the strongest person at his dad's funeral, to help the rest of his family. i thought that was a good attitude, to concentrate on helping others during very difficult times.

Maybe there is someone you can help, either someone you know, or even a complete stranger? What goes around often comes around too....

[flaxxy703]

anxiety and depression and antidepressant/anxiety meds can cause lightheadedness as well

[lovetodance2018]

Thank you for sharing. Sorry for the loss of your brother, that can be very hard to deal with especially when you already struggle with anxiety and depression. Do you have a counselor to talk with. This is important to help you with coping skills. I struggle with perfectionism so I understand your OCD. It also affects my depression. Are you on medication for your depression? I know it is a combination of a chemical imbalance and the way we cope with stress. Breathing techniques are a big help for me. The one that works best for me is 557 - 5 deep breaths in, hold for 5 and out slowly through my mouth for 7. Doing this two to three times relaxing me. So does journaling my thoughts, taking them out of my mind and putting them on paper helps. Lastly, telling myself it is OK to give myself breaks and relax. Your body needs it. I will be praying for you and if you ever need someone to chat with feel free to pm me. Hugs and God Bless