Anxiety

[energy1]

I have recently been diagnosed with mild to moderate COPD and have mental health issues it’s been steady for while since last two weeks has caused my anxiety to hit the roof !! I am stroke Nurse and I am scared to go to work ! I have to use public transport to get work just so scared xx

[R2B_Joe Partner]

I'm sorry to see that you're going through this! It would definitely have me a bit frightened as well. Believe it or not, COPD and anxiety seem to go hand in hand often times. I think some of that is just the nature of COPD being what it is and some can be a physiological response from your body. The feeling of being short of breath increases feelings of anxiety. It is very real so do not let anyone tell you that "It's all in your head."

That said, there is hope and there are strategies you can use to help manage anxiety.

Here are a couple of things you may want to try (if you're not already doing them):

1) Pursed lip breathing- this technique is proven to provide relief from anxiety as well as increase blood oxygen saturation. Basically- take a deep breath in through your nose (if your nose is stuffed up then through your mouth if you have to), then purse your lips and blow out for about 2X the amount of time you used to breathe in. I usually breathe in to the count of 4 and blow out to the count of 8. I will do this as many times as it takes to start to feel a bit better. It really works...

2) Practice Intentional Gratitude- Especially in times like these when it seems all hell is breaking loose, it can be very helpful to stop and think about what you are grateful for. This can be hard for some people, but everyone, I mean EVERYONE can choose something to be grateful for. It could be as simple as a morning sunrise, someone who has been a friend, or just some good thing in your life. Focusing on gratitude will certainly help reduce anxiety and helps promote a feeling of well-being.

3) Find an island of refuge- Schedule a little time to do something that brings you joy. You might have to get creative or pick something small that would work in your schedule, but having something to look forward to is like an oasis in a turbulent sea.

I hope that there is something in these suggestions can help you on your journey. Just know that there are people here at COPD Friends to support you!

[energy1 in reply to R2B_Joe]

Bless you thank you so much for reaching out ! Means a lot R2B Joe ! I shall give this ago your right going try start hobby getting creative ! Xx

[R2B_Joe Partner in reply to energy1]

Happy to share a few things that work for me...glad to be of assistance! Thanks for being a part of this community and sharing your feelings. That's what makes this group special!

[joyful4u]

I'm sorry to hear how you're feeling. My son works at a supermarket at the register. He's been panicking lately, with people hoarding & being rude. Plus he lives with me & worries about bringing home the corona virus. I've been praying for all nurses & doctors right along & now I'll include you too. You're all on the front line, for sure. I used to work as a medical laboratory technician & still have friends doing the testing. They say it's crazy busy. Over here(USA) there's a hugh shortage of protective gear, masks, gloves, etc. I feel for you. Your patients are blessed to have you caring for them. Especially at times like this, we need to take one day at a time. I hope your anxiety lessens soon. God bless you, Terri

[energy1 in reply to joyful4u]

Thank you so much been praying too every day for this to pass and for healing just done mediation feeling bit better xx

[Bingo88]

Hello energy1. I am so sorry you have these health problems. Surely if people with copd are told to stay home. It should apply to you in your job more so. I admire your dedication to your job and i guess with your Anxiety it helps to carry on with a daily routine. And the job occupies your mind. I just hope these extra restrictions will make your travel to work less stressful. Please take care. And Thanks for all you do for us Brian

[R2B_John Moderator]

Another self calming method/tip that you might find helpful is practicing Mindful Awarwness. There are many easy to folliw videos on Facebook.

Mindful Awareness is something that so maby find helpful that my pulmonologist at Mayo Clinic both researches it and promotes it.

We're here for you.

[Ne33]

Am sorry to hear about your anxiety hope ur doing ok and taking care of ur self xxxx