Anxiety/worry and unsure how to help myself

[Sampanther]

Hey all

I have been struggling with moderate anxiety symptoms for the past year or so and feel I am getting little help from GP's, almost as if they don't know how to help. So I battle through on my own but sometimes feel like I am going to fall apart and my symptoms are becoming out of my control and affecting my work etc. I sometimes get so upset over small things, and overthink, and am unsure how to help myself. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated, as I get nervous thinking about work and as my boss is pretty hard I know he wouldn't understand!

[blondguy]

Hello Sampanther

Welcome to the forums and thanks for reaching out and posting!

I feel your pain where anxiety is concerned. I have had acute anxiety for many years. Battling on your own is noble but can also exacerbate the anxiety feelings. Being upset over little things, overthinking are common with anxiety. You are not alone with how you feel Sam.

I am fortunate as I have a legend of a GP that has been a rock for 20 years. I am disappointed that you have had little help from your GP's as a GP is usually the best first step towards recovery.

With the early stages of Anxiety it is crucial that you find a GP that has an interest or some type of focus on anxiety/depression. Maybe you know someone that can vouch for their GP being a legend? Maybe calling a clinic on the phone and let them know you wish to see a GP that is pro-active where anxiety disorder is concerned?

What have your GP's being saying to you when you mention you are experiencing anxiety symptoms?

Good news though: Anxiety does reduce in its severity with regular visits to a doc/counselor....

It would be great to hear back from you Sam. There are many super kind people here that suffer anxiety and depression that can help you:-)

My kind thoughts for you

Paul

[Starwolf]

Hi Sampanther and a warm welcome to you.

Anxiety symptoms are scary and disruptive. They shouldn't be dismissed as unimportant by doctors, particularly if they interfere with work. I agree with Paul, GPs are service providers. Nothing wrong with letting go of an uncaring one and setting off in search of one who can/will help. No need to go it alone. With the right help and support, anxiety is manageable.

Meanwhile, it may be useful to remind yourself that most of the scary scenarios the mind invents seldom happen in reality. You may also google relaxation techniques and relaxed breathing. It is helpful to have a few tricks up our sleeve whenever we feel another wave is about to hit. Learning these techniques may not come easy at first. Persistence is the key. Like with all new skills, practice eventually makes perfect. They can become effective tools to help reclaim control... and the peace of mind that you deserve.