How can I stop digging?

[Iliketojugglejuggle]

I have been dealing with anxiety on and off since 2020. I tend to produce more stomach acid when my anxiety gets bad to the point I have developed acid reflux and some peptic ulcers back in 2021. I tend to latch on to an unresolved issue and catastrophize the situation.

That starts the spiral and leads to me having physical symptoms of my anxiety, especially when it comes to health issues, I always assume the worst outcome which terrifies me. At night I’ll have panic attacks to where my body trembles and shakes and leading to many sleepless nights. These episodes can last weeks or longer depending on the situation, then a long stint of things being normal.

I recently started seeing a therapist for help. How can I stop digging myself into such holes? Right now I’m hopefully at the end of an episode but things in my life are up and down and I don’t know what’s around the corner. Any help is greatly appreciated.

[Agora1]

Hello new friend, Welcome to a caring and supportive community.

Worrying doesn't get us anywhere except developing acid reflux and ulcers.

When we worry, our body automatically produces more stomach acid.

There is medication that your doctor can give you in subsiding the over

production of the acid. Receiving therapy is important right now as you

start addressing where all your over worrying is coming from. In between

therapy, it would be a good idea to find other methods that allow both your

mind and body to relax for periods of time each day.

I use Meditation and Breathing exercises both morning and evening. If needed

I do an extra one mid-day. It must be a daily exercise, giving it at least one month

until your mind accepts these changes. I'm happy you are here with us. xx

[Iliketojugglejuggle in reply to Agora1]

Thank you for reading and your kind words. Yes I’m on a PPI and antacids which seem to work, but in cases when stress and anxiety get super bad they fall short.

I’m currently physically injured from a sports injury which is also a big cause for how I’m feeling so not sure how much of the physical exercise you mentioned I can do, but will def look into it😀

[Agora1 in reply to Iliketojugglejuggle]

Let me readdress the exercise statement. I didn't mean physically but

mentally exercising the mind. Our mind is powerful and can be retrained.

My "go to" is YouTube. It's free and yet has many videos on Meditation

and Breathing which can be used not only for stress reduction but pain

reduction as well. All this takes time but it's very well worth the effort.

I'm sorry to hear about your physical injury. By all means, follow your doctor's

instructions and stay safe. xx

[Celtic27 in reply to Agora1]

Hi good to see you still around the groups all the best david

[Agora1 in reply to Celtic27]

Hi david, sending you Peace xx

[Celtic27]

Hi there I to also have health anxiety which at times can be severe I get it a lot seems like a never ending circle so I feel your pain the only thing that helps is my meds for which I'm on a lot of different kind but I don't think I will be stopping them Any time soon I wish you all the best take care david p.s welcome to this group there are lots of good people who can help you with good advice !