Anxiety getting worse

tactlesskwi
Community Member

So I've struggled with anxiety since I was really really little. This year I've had some extra pressure put on me at school, and I've slowing been burning out and falling apart. The pressure to perform combined with general anxiety stops me from talking to people, celebrating birthdays, putting my hand up in class, doing oral presentations, lots of different things. I recently had a COMPLETE mental breakdown in front of an entire class, and am now mortified. Soon I'll be going to see a GP about it to try and see what can help, and I was wondering if anyone had any intermediary solutions or ways I could go about the conversation with a GP and the initial consultation with a psychologist?

 

Thanks!

1 Reply 1

Sophie_M
Moderator
Moderator
Hi there,

Thank you so much for sharing what you're going through. it sounds like this has been an incredibly overwhelming time, and we want to acknowledge the courage it takes to open up like this, especially after everything you've been managing. You're absolutely not alone, and your voice belongs here.

It’s completely understandable that pressure at school would make things feel harder especially when anxiety is already part of the picture. A lot of people experience that “shut down” feeling with social pressure or public attention, so please know you're not the only one who's had those kinds of moments. Even though the experience was distressing, it’s also a sign that you’ve been pushing through for a long time and really deserve some support now.

It’s great to hear you’re planning to speak with your GP,  that’s a really positive and important step. You could let them know how long anxiety has been affecting you, and give some examples (like feeling unable to speak up in class, or the recent breakdown). Some people even find it helpful to write it all down beforehand, or bring someone with them if that feels comfortable.

If you're referred to a psychologist, you don’t need to have all the answers  just be honest about how anxiety shows up in your day-to-day life and what you hope to feel more confident with. Psychologists are trained to guide the conversation gently.

You might also find it helpful to look into headspace - a youth mental health service that offers free or low-cost support: eheadspace.org.au

You're already doing so much by reaching out, and we’re really glad you’ve shared here. Please keep posting this community is here for you.

Take care,
Sophie M