Just joined- here's a bit of where I'm at

[olv45638]

So I just joined this and I'm not really sure what to expect. Struggling a little extra lately. I moved to a new area with my partner and I havent made a y real connections outside or inside of work. On top of this we are moving again so that he can pursue his doctoral degree which is amazing- but I'm super anxious to find a professional position there that is going to have the same opportunities for me as my current workplace. Which makes me feel selfish...also I feel guilty for leaving my current job and the people I support.... also I am struggling with the idea of moving across the country back to a locale that isn't too far from where I grew up and the trauma that I experienced there. Lots of emotions- I start every day with anxiety and sometimes it affects my current work ability. I also don't want to be limited by the doctoral programs there- I'd like to pursue my own degree (if I'm able) in the near future. Lots of thoughts- sorry for this initial rant.

[Torri_____]

Welcome and it’s a nice place to voice things as this and not feel judged and heard I hace found. I’m sorry so much change and most anyone gets anxious that. You sound bright and driven and working to secure a beautiful rounded future yet the fears of uncertainty mixed with the person you’re becoming struggling with the trauma you endured and the new location reminds you of that part of you that you are overcoming to better the rest. I love the driven nature yiu have and being married considering your spouse first can sometimes leave us anxious as our own dreams become entwined or almost there dreams. I know transitions can be fearful and unknown but your sense of self seems as if you are going to get this and life and nothing in the way. I would journal my fears to examine what parts in me are fighting what and maybe get some relief finding ways you can be as proactive as you go and not feel overwhelmed by each big thing becoming your whole would changing.

Also to try a gratefulness exercise where you mindfully acknowledge what is good snd feel like wow look at the positive to where we are going in life and not let the fears be so big as you see the progression for positives. Perception can gloom or shine a situation I have had to find through the thugs I’m enduring. Best wishes and thanks for sharing

[olv45638 in reply to Torri_____]

Thank you for your thoughtful response it means a lot! I appreciate the tips as well- I can't seem to get into journaling but maybe I should start!

[olv45638]

Thank you for your words! I appreciate it!

[MJD-]

Hi there and welcome. I’m sorry to hear of your issues I hope my personal and professional opinion can bring some comfort! This sounds a lot like social anxiety disorder which come with the major symptoms; fear or panic when in a new unfamiliar social environment. Difficultly making new aquatints or socialising in general which is often a result of more general anxiety symptoms such as overthinking, fixation on other peoples opinions and reactions to yourself which can lead to a downward spiral of many obsessive personality traits and symptoms including fear of abandonment and disapproval from others leading to a unrealistic comprehension of how to behave in social situations very much like a perfectionist, never satisfied with who or where you are in life putting you in a constant ‘perfectionist’ state of mind which can cause you to overthink so much you don’t know or avoid speaking in certain situations, irrational fear of how you will appear both vocally and physically. Possible amnesia including shot term memory problems, difficulty remembering dates and times, and not as common but linked is jumping from one hobby, job, or task due to either loss of interest or difficulty making new decisions. Sorry to drone on but if any of these seem familiar it could be social anxiety disorder either way all anxiety disorders are relatively easy to treat once you find the right clinician and treatment plan.

[olv45638]

I appreciate this a ton! I have been diagnosed with general anxiety disorder in the past and am currently on medication for depression and anxiety. However I do feel like this lockdown scenario has made my anxiety worse when it comes to leaving my house and socializing with others. Any other recommendations as far as people to reach out to etc. would be greatly appreciated ❤