Cannot do this again.... anxiety and depression

[Tugboat]

Hello again,

I have not been on here for while, which I suppose is a good thing! I suffer with what I call health anxiety and have done for many many years on and off. Just before Christmas this year I had trouble breathing including shortness of breath. I went to my GP which he did ECG and blood tests for my heart function and all was good, however I still struggled with the problem and started to over think things.... as I do! I quite over weight and think that’s why I am struggling to breathe however I always think it’s something more, like I’m going to die........ this takes over my mind and therefore I find it difficult to think straight and positive. I find my self not wanting to socialise with family or friends and I block my self off from them as I don’t want to annoy them. I no longer enjoy the little pleasures in life and find it difficult to eat. I am currently on medication for depression and have medication for anxiety if needed, which at the moment I take medication twice a day or as needed. I also feel nauseous in the morning and it settles down through out the day, sometimes! Really struggling getting out of my safe haven ( bed) in the morning as I don’t want to face another day anxiety.

Hate feeling this way and I try to be positive

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Tugboat,

Late last year sounds particularly rough for you. Your health anxiety must take so much out of you...it must be so draining and distressing...

I feel sad to hear how your mental health is affecting so many aspects of your life...it must be hard to find the confidence and motivation to socialise/spend time with friends, even if that (connection) might be something that would actually help you...

I can relate to how bedd can be a safe haven, but I suppose most of us humans need more than that in the long-term...connection, socialising, meaning, etc...things like that. That said, I also understand it’s very difficult to venture beyond your safe haven....

I know you’re taking meds and have seen a GP, but I’m wondering do you also receive support from a counsellor or psychologist?

I hope it’s okay for me to ask. The reason that I’m wondering is I think they might be able to help you come up with strategies to help you manage your anxiety...just a gentle idea...

Kind and caring thoughts,

Pepper

[Tugboat]

Hello Pepper,

Thank you for your reply, it always helps reaching out on the forum. Over the years I have seen many councillors and psychologist but unfortunately they have not been able to help me.... I suppose it’s finding the right one to connect with. My GP has given me another referral so let’s see how that one goes. Cannot stop crying today it’s so straining

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Tugboat,

You sound as though you’re hurting and struggling. Sometimes the tears just flow...I feel your sadness...

I’m glad to hear that reaching out here helps though. I think you’re right, it can be a bit of a struggle to find a psych or counsellor who is a good fit for you...

I think there’s often a bit of a trial and error process involved before we can find the right psych or counsellor. I understand that process can be disheartening at times.

Well done on getting a new referral from your GP- I think that’s a brave step forward. Hopefully things work out...

No pressure to reply, but is it okay if I ask how have you been doing since your latest post?

Kind and caring thoughts,

Pepper

[Tugboat]

Hello Pepper

i have been struggling all week 😞 I am currently having Some tests done and get results back this morning, so my anxiety is out of control. Thanks for reaching out to me

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Tugboat,

What a rough week you have been having...

I know tests and results can be very stressful and nerve racking...you sound very overwhelmed and worried. The anxiety must be so debilitating....

Thinking of you,

Pepper