Hello from a socially anxious friend

[KBKG]

Hi,

I was diagnosed with severe Anxiety and depression in December 2015 after a breakdown due to my neighbour. I’ve always had traits of Anxiety, even though I pushed myself through Drama class in high school and then a performing arts course in college. I’ve always masked, to the point where my parents think there is something seriously wrong with me now, as they didn’t see this side to me when I was a child/teenager. I’ve always avoided conflict and get anxious talking to absolutely anyone outside of my household. The hot flushes, tremors and sweats drive me insane and I also experience hives which really don’t help the situation at all. Trying to get hold of my doctor is a nightmare. I submitted a medical review for my medication at the beginning of August stating it isn’t working and have yet to even have a confirmation for that. I currently take SSRI’s but believe I need a dopamine based medication rather then a serotonin.

I’m chronically tired all the time. I can’t focus on any tasks or I start chores ie: cleaning and never complete them. I have to take a nap most days to reset my brain like an on and off switch and I have to note EVERYTHING or I forget everything. I believe I may be on the autistic spectrum or ADD. My son and partner have ADHD, my brother has ADHD/Autism and my other brother shows traits of Autism but isn’t bothered for a diagnosis.

I’m open to advice from people in the same sort of situation I find myself in.

🌻

[Lazy_dog_lover]

KBKG

Thanks for the post. Public speaking and performing is the #1 fear worldwide. You are not alone. What topics do you really love to think about? Hobbies? On YouTube, using a private setting, so no one can see them, practice making a show that talks about your favorite ____. You don’t even have to be in the video. Just show pictures or your hands doing something. Just get you using your voice. I am sure it is a wonderful voice.

I agree that there is probably an ADD or ADHD component, just from hearing the story, but those and Autism are really hard to diagnose. Many people just use strategies to support themselves without a diagnosis.

I can’t speak to the serotonin vs dopamine medications, but unless you are the psychiatrist, it is really hard to suggest a medication change. You can journal what you do feel, what strategies work, etc. Present that when you do see the doctor. Unfortunately, the doctors are now overloaded post-COVID.

What do you do to relax? When you journal, be sure to add a few things you are grateful for each day. It helps to calm the nervous energy.

Best of luck.