Could I have anxiety?

[2_Double_O]

Hi, I recently made an account because I really want to know what's going on and what I can do about it.

I don't know if I have anxiety or if I'm just overreacting. I've always been an anxious person but recently I've noticed that it's started seriously affecting me. I get really worried about the most ridiculous things and work myself up to the point where I can feel my heart pumping and my chest feels tight, I haven't experienced a panic attack though. My worrying is also impacting my sleep as I find I rethink my day and all the awkward, embarrassing or bad moments in it at night. However, I find it incredibly hard to talk about this to anyone, whether it be my parents, friends or even my schools counsellor who I've recently started talking to. I've always struggled with voicing my feelings and I'm not quite sure if I can bring myself to straight up tell someone face to face. But I do want help. I want to be able to sort my feelings out because it's all really confusing and I'm honestly not sure what to do anymore. I'm afraid to tell my parents because I'm scared they'll think I'm overreacting or seeking attention and I also don't think I want to be that vulnerable around anyone close to me.

I know that my school counsellor knows that something is up because of the way she looks at me and the questions she asks but I can't bring myself to straight up tell her.

Deep down I think I know that my parents care for me and will understand and try and get me the help I need but my worries keep getting the better of me and stop me from telling them. I have sat with my mum and gone to tell her multiple times but I always change my mind before I do it and make up an excuse. I'm sick of not knowing what to do but even I'm not sure what's really happening to me so I don't know how to explain it to someone else.

[blondguy]

Hello Double O

Welcome and good on you for having the courage to post too!

I used to have anxiety feelings for a while and understand what you are going through and yes it can be unpleasant to have these feelings.

You have an excellent focus on your health by seeing your school counselor..Well done!!

Your counselor will have difficulty trying to help you if you dont tell her everything you actually feel. I understand this is hard as I was the same as you. These 'feelings' can be reduced.....as long as you really say how it is.

The heart pumping and the tight chest are very common feelings of basic anxiety that many people have.

Just a couple of tips that may help...

• Keep seeing your counselor....the more you do the better you will feel....and sleep
• Please do let your counselor know exactly how you feel...Your discussions are always strictly private
• Print this page and give it to your counselor...and/or your mum. I am a parent and would respect you for doing so!
• Please avoid using Google for research as there are way too many conflicting 'opinions' that may be confusing
  

Just a compliment or two if thats okay!

You are amazing for seeing your counselor....Excellent!

You are also amazing for saying " I do want help" These simple words you mentioned are a sign of huge strength and also will ensure you feel better sooner than later...especially after you speak to your counselor honestly!

You have everything to gain and nothing to lose by doing so 🙂

Your thoughts are welcome Double O. The forums are non judgemental and safe place for you to post..always

my kind thoughts and well done!

Paul