topic Anyone else? in Anxiety

Anyone else?

Justin_b123 — Sat, 24 Feb 2018 10:59:25 GMT

Hi everyone I'm really hoping someone has experienced the same thing as me and is able to give advice. A couple of years ago I had a severe anxiety attack which was followed by a few more. I now have this feeling that nothing is real it's like when I'm doing something it's not me controlling myself I also have a very numb head. In result of this I have convinced myself that I have a brain tumour or something severe like that. If anyone else experiences this and has any strategies to combat this I would really appreciate it.

Anyone else?

Janey123 — Sat, 24 Feb 2018 12:01:11 GMT

Hi Justin,

I haven't experienced this myself, although I have had anxiety attacks before- after which I am usually really tired, drained and a bit spaced out for a week or so (its almost like I need to recharge). How long have you been feeling like this? I think you should visit a GP about this if you haven't already done so.

Sounds like your thoughts of serious illness are not helpful. They aren't true, so try not to take them too seriously.

I hope someone who has experienced something like this can offer some more specific advice.

Janey 🙂

Anyone else?

Justin_b123 — Sat, 24 Feb 2018 17:35:20 GMT

Ok thank you I have booked and appointment on Monday to see my GP

Anyone else?

Justin_b123 — Sat, 24 Feb 2018 17:36:58 GMT

I've been feeling this for around 3 years the numbness and Depersonalisation feeling has not passed

Anyone else?

Just Sara — Sat, 24 Feb 2018 18:14:22 GMT

Hi and welcome Justin! (Shout-out and thanks for answering too Janey)

What you're expressing sounds like detachment or 'dissociation'. Some call it not being grounded or consciously aware.

This happens when we feel a little at risk or don't want to face a person or situation. It can also be triggered by not eating, (low blood sugar) Especially during late mornings.

We talk a lot on here about 'mindfulness'; that's when we put effort into being present in the moment, aware of our physical environment and the people in it. This can bring us back to earth so to speak.

Deep slow breathing while wriggling fingers or making a fist/releasing can work too; there are many different techniques. GGrand has a thread going atm about how to ground. It's worth a look-see.

Dissociation behaviour's created mainly in childhood as a means of escaping (in the mind) from/after trauma or uncomfortable situations. Kids aren't experienced enough to deal with aggressive teachers, parents, friends etc so they 'zone out' to avoid feeling inadequate or fearful of saying the wrong thing for instance. Causes are very individual.

In my experience, it's nearly always fear based; though symptoms of low blood sugar levels from not eating breakfast can be very similar in nature.

Good on you for putting your questions out there! As Janey says; seeing your GP's a good start. Having a fasting blood test to identify blood sugar levels can rule it out as a problem. Talking with them about your anxiety will help too.

Again, welcome...hope I've helped.

Kind thoughts;

Sez