Anxiety flares up

[Clare_Marie]

Hi Guys, 

I've been doing a lot of research on anxiety over the past few weeks. I'm experiencing chest pains and have been really emotional. I feel as though I can never face the day when I wake up. It usually starts with feeling very unsettled in the morning as soon as I open my eyes. It's like a nervous feeling. Is this something to worry about? Should I get medicated to help it go away? 

I run a cleaning business with two workers. That's stressful at times but nothing I can't deal with. Over the past few months I'm loosing a lot of money as people aren't paying their invoices which is what started these feelings. My partner doesn't belive in being on anti depressants or anything like that. He says excercise and healthy eating helps. I believe that excercise does help as when I do it I feel a little better but when I feel like this I don't want to go to the gym. Please help I have no idea what to do.. I can't talk to my mum or friends as it will just worry them... 

Sorry it's long! 

[Zeal]

Hi Clare Marie,

Thank you for your post, and welcome to the forum!

Your post is not too long at all! It seems about the right length to me.

Doing your own research shows you are willing to learn and are proactive. However, searching for this kind of information online can lead to more anxiety, as well as misdiagnosing yourself! To me, it does sound as though you have general anxiety though. It is very important that you seek help from your doctor (GP). They can formally diagnose you and find out what's going on, as well as give you tips and treatment options. Medication may not be required. It depends on the severity of your anxiety, whether you have a hormone imbalance, what your doctor thinks is best for you, and your own preferences.

Your partner's advice of eating well and exercising does have great value. However, in SOME cases, antidepressants are necessary. I have been taking the same antidepressants (SSRI's) for over three years for my OCD (anxiety condition), due to my serotonin imbalance. Even with healthy lifestyle choices, I will still experience anxiety symptoms due to this brain chemical imbalance. For you, lifestyle choices/changes and other coping strategies could be sufficient. Discuss this with your doctor.

It sounds to me that a lot of the stress, as you say, is coming from running your cleaning business. Make sure you communicate firmly (but kindly of course, which I know you'd do) what is expected, to both your workers and your clients. You could talk about the stresses of your cleaning business to your Mum and close friends,  as this is a big part of your life and is important to you. If you are diagnosed with anxiety by your GP, you could confide in your Mum and say you are seeking help. It's natural for mothers to be concerned about the health of their children at times. I'm sure your Mum will appreciate you keeping her informed. It's up to you though 🙂

I hope you can see your GP soon.

Best wishes,

SM

[TheSteve]

Hi Clare Marie,

Thanks for sharing your story. SM gives some great advice: definitely see a doc and/or a therapist and get these problems and feelings out in the open.

I hear where you are coming from. The stress of "potentially" failing or losing money in the future is often a far greater stress than the toils of the job itself. I have been in this position. I have a difficult job but nothing that bothers me too much. What bothers me is the prospect of not making enough to cover the bills and having to dip into savings. I get it. There are things to be done however:

- You can try bring your receivables forward over time. This is a process which typically starts with new accounts. You may have to just put gentle pressure on your existing AR to collect a bit quicker, or, outsource this if it makes it easier on you.

- Ensure you have enough cash in reserve to get you by for "x" months. This can give nice peace of mind during times of slow payment.

- Ensure your employees are on a flexible schedule and pay structure, so you are not left covering all of the bills when the income side is lower (or slower)

- If it takes the stress away, shut shop and work for somebody else. You may be able to bring some customers along and really add value, but on somebody else's coin. Without your own payroll to cover along with other expenses, this can be quite liberating. This is a judgement call, however.

In the morning, we are always more susceptible to anxiety as our serotonin levels are at their lowest. You'll probably notice that you feel better as the day rolls on. THIs is common. In time as you deal with the underlying causes, the anxiety will dissipate. 

You can certainly speak to family members about this. Dont' feel bad or as if you will upset them. It is often therapeutic to do so.

Your husband has given some nice advice. Workout, spend some time with you, fix your diet if need be etc. These are all "things" that make us better, more healthy, and more resilient. LEave no stone unturned.

Come back and chat anytime, we are here for you. I may be able to help with some of the biz questions as well, should you like. I spend my waking hours working with companies of all types.

All my best to you.

Steve

[Clare_Marie]

Thank you so much for your reply, I really appreciate it!! 

I think I will see a professional and go from there. 

Thank you! 😃 

[Clare_Marie]

Thank you so much for your reply! I really appreciate it. These forums are so handy! I think I will organise to see a professional soon. 

Thank you! 😃

[TheSteve]

We are here for you Clare Marie, anytime.