Anxiety and the triggering stimulus!

[cake my day]

Hello everyone

Just over 2 years ago during my undergraduate studies the most crucial period before the exams. I had some HORRIBLE neighbours who for ONE WHOLE week played the most obnoxious music with thumpers? It went on for one week and now im feeling the consequence from that time. Im having terrible anxiety from certain triggers. Eg music, talking from over the fence, potch lights from the neighbours. Not only do i feel heavy headed but have these stomach clenches which feels like knots from these triggers. Making me feel so helpless and feeling like im being locked in a cage.

i just feel so anxious alot of the time and honestly wished i could just turn back the clock and be that person before that incident.( knowing that will never happen:(

I'm just wondering is anyone has had similar experiences and how did you deal with the symptoms of anxiety. Because these days i don't enjoy my hobbies like i use to.Any advice and personal experience is most welcome!

[PamelaR]

Hello Cake My day and a very warm welcome to you.

Isn't it just so off when you can't control the others who live in you neighbourhood? It's the pits I must agree.

Living with anxiety is difficult, though it is manageable. Even with those pesky triggers coming from outside your home.

I'm not a health professional, though I've lived experience with PTSD, anxiety and depression. One of the things I learnt long ago was I can't control that which is out of my control (e.g. neighbours). So what do you do?

For me I've had to learn how to manage my anxiety when it rises, i.e. when I'm triggered. For example, by neighbours who have very aggressive arguments.

There are many tips in our forums on how anxiety can be managed. If you want to, do a search for - TIPS FOR MANAGING ANXIETY . The thread is under the Anxiety forum.

Anxiety is not something that just goes, however, it's manageable. I live with it everyday. Some days can be worse than others. But life is very good. Much better now that I've learnt to stop trying to control my environment and to control others.

Focussing on the breathe, grounding, mindfulness helps tremendously.

Christmas time is stressful, try relaxing, listen to some peaceful music. Put some headphones on to drown out the horrible music from the past.

What sort of music do you like?

Have you seen anyone for your anxiety? E.g. doctor or health professional?

What sorts of things do you do to help your anxiety? E.g. eating well, exercising?

Kind regards

PamelaR

[Croix]

Dear Cake my day ~

PamelaR is pretty much spot on, anxiety needs to be controlled, and that is not always straightforward. Going to see your GP is a very good idea, setting out how that incident has changed your life and affects you physically and mentally. I never improved at all until I had competent professional help.

Support comes from those around you too if you have family or friends who you can discuss things with . I find I easily overreact and stress over things and talking with my partner gives me back a sense of perspective. Do you have anyone like that?

Living a lifestyle that includes exercise, nutrition and good sleep all reduce stress levels which in turn reduces anxiety. As well having an activity every day you enjoy - look forward to - which takes your mind away is tremendously helpful. I use books and moves plus exercise as I can. What do you have?

Like PamelaR I find one particular thread extremely useful, she mentioned it in passing, the exact address is:

Forums / Anxiety / SELF HELP TIPS FOR MANAGING ANXIETY

Very long, but has the benefit of many people's experiences. I also use a free smartphone app called Smiling Mind, which helps me break out of the hamster wheel of anxious thoughts going round and round (it does take a bit of practice but worth it)

While you can't put back the clock I think you will find life -and your hobbies -can be enjoyable and fulfilling again

Croix

[cake my day]

Hi pamelaR

Thank you for your advice. No i havent seen a doctor but i do know it is unfortunately anxiety. it hasnt been very long but the telltale signs are there. Apart from regular exercise i also reduce my intake of junk food to help manage the symptoms.

It's like you read my mind because i can't control my environment i'm in i tend to stress and it causes my anxiety to worsen.This will be my first step.because honestly im so sick of literally sick in my stomach full of knots.

What steps did you take to STOP?

I will check out that forum and see if others can also offer insight

Thank you