Severe Anxiety & Panic Paralyzing
Posted , 3 users are following.
This site has been a huge resource/reassurance to me the past month as I've struggled daily with anxiety and panic.
I've struggled with anxiety/panic disorder since 12 years old (after throwing up in class). In the 22 years since I've have countless bouts of it, but was only diagnosed with panic and anxiety disorder 3 years ago and I started Cymbalta (I also have fibromyalgia). I tried going off the Cymbalta twice and both times relapsed. I haven't started once again, but am still in the midst of debilitating symptoms that make every minute and day a struggle. I'm a mom of two young kids and I'm barely getting by with the minimum housework and taking them to school. I have insomnia and a horrible loss of appetite that further fuels my anxiety as I force myself to eat. I've withdrawn from activities and friends and find solace only when sleeping or curled up on the couch.
I'm seeing my therapist again and psychiatrist who said to use benzo to help until meds kick in, but I'm terrified of addiction. It's terrifying not to recognize yourself. I fear that each relapse will be worse.
Just looking for any advice or support - anxiety is such a nightmare - I feel trapped and don't want to feel hopeless.
2 likes, 4 replies
jen1978 Lisa2468
Posted
Hi Lisa
I have just joined group today and already so am reassured that what I am feeling on a daily basis is anxiety related and that other people suffer to - not that I want them to lol
I've suffered with anxiety/panic attacks/stress/depression since the age of 10. I am now 38 and anxiety comes and goes. I can be fine for months and then out of nowhere I ha e a panic attack and of we go again. Sometimes I can control it myself but most of the time it takes a hold and I can't get it under control and have to ask GP to put me back on meds. At the moment I am suffering severe anxiety. I had a baby a few months ago and was anxious throughput pregnancy. I managed to convince myself I would die giving birth. I obviously didn't but then convinced myself that I would suffer postpartum heameorrage. I didn't. It didn't end there. Every pain or ache I get I convince myself I have a terminal illness. I'm so fed up of feeling like this. I just want to live a normal happy life. I feel as though I am only free of anxiety when asleep lol Maybe it's time to go back on meds x
Lisa2468 jen1978
Posted
Sorry to hear you're going through a similar situation. Interestingly enough, my last bout of severe anxiety, panic and depression came on 7 months after my second daughter was born. I believe the hormonal changes in new motherhood can exacerbate anxiety, especially for those who have dealt with these issues in the past. I agree that you should talk to a doctor or therapist about going back on a medication.
Unicorns Lisa2468
Posted
Bless you, I can relate to the panic you are feeling. It is so scary and you do feel paralysis and as if you're dying.
I sometimes find it really hard to go out and about, although no one would be able to tell by looking at me. I internalise everything which makes it tough to cope with inside my own thoughts.
It's a horrible feeling - like being trapped as you say. I'm so sorry you are going through this. Please don't feel alone or hopeless. Remember you are doing your best. I find lots of rest and distractions help. Running, swimming, yoga, anything that helps breathing become more controlled. And doing something positive for your own wellbeing. I do the above alone which gives me alone time and it helps keep me sane when my anxiety rears up. It quiets the thoughts and panic. I've made the decision to not allow myself to self destruct or self sabotage! So far it works mostly. I still have days where I want to stay in bed and not see anyone. But that's ok. I've learnt to allow myself some space as and when I need. I hope some of these thoughts help give you some hope and motivation x
Keep smiling
Be strong 💪🏻
Lisa2468 Unicorns
Posted
Thank you for the kind words! I don't do much for myself, but it's not as if I have the energy or motivation to do so right now. Anxiety is so exhausting. I savor the minutes or hours that I feel "normal," but too often it's fleeting.