Nerves and Anxiety

[Sweetmango85]

What methods do you use to combat anxiety due to Graves’ ? I’m too weak from lost appetite and lack of sleep to exercise, I’m having a difficult time distracting my mind with anything other than this disease. Does anyone take meds for anxiety and does it work?

[Buddy195 Administrator]

Hi Sweetmango85. my anxiety is always worse when either thyroid medication or key vitamins (ferritin folate, vit D, B12) are not optimal. By optimal I don’t mean simply ‘in range’ but high in the range. I test bloods privately & post results on this forum for advice. I find taking magnesium at tea time helps me relax and sleep better.

My GP initially said I’d got health anxiety’ & I had lots of sessions with a psychotherapist. When I joined this forum, members helped me realise that the anxiety was linked to having a thyroid condition. For me, this was a game-changer & I could do something to help improve my health.

My inflammation has decreased by being gluten free & I no longer have any digestive issues.

I’ve learned to go easy on myself when I’m tired or achey......I practise Pilates (I’m not very good at it but I follow classes on line!) and I listen to/ follow mindfulness programmes. I have the book, CD & app by mark Williams & Danny Penman, Mindfulness in a Frantic World. Following the guided meditations really helps reduce any palpitations, fast pulse etc. It takes a lot of practise to complete them when you have a ‘racing mind’ from anxiety, but it really helps me.

Most importantly, remember you are not alone with anxiety symptoms, so many members have these. Secondly, remember that anxiety will pass and you will feel better (especially when medication and vitamins are optimal).

Best wishes to you!

[SlowDragon Administrator]

Anxiety often suggests thyroid levels are not correct

Do you have any recent thyroid results

What vitamin supplements are you currently taking

Maintaining GOOD vitamin D, folate, ferritin and B12 levels can significantly improve symptoms

Also many Hashimoto’s and Graves patients find strictly gluten free diet is really helpful. But get coeliac blood test done BEFORE considering trial on strictly gluten free diet

[pennyannie]

Hey there again ;

Can you please POST HERE your current blood test results as detailed in your post to me on the Graves forum - thank you :