Newbie with bad anxiety

[Lil_m]

Hello! I'm new to the forum and having a bad day today. I've had anxiety since a teenager. Most days I manage ok but today isn't one, it's my own fault for having a few too many wines over the new year. It's the only way I seem to be able to relax nowadays. I just can't seem to shake off this feeling of shame and guilt. I just want this feeling to go away.

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Lil m,

I hope it’s okay for me to say hello and extend a caring welcome to you here.

It sounds like it has been a rough day today. You seem like a kind person who turns to alcohol because you’re in some sort of emotional pain...

I can relate to how you use alcohol to deal with emotions. I do the same so I feel for you...

You are always welcome to share more about yourself but there is no pressure. Only if you would like to and feel comfortable sharing more.

Caring thoughts,

Pepper

[Lil_m]

Hi Pepper

thank you for your reply. I'm sure I'll feel better tomorrow. I've suffered with anxiety and a phobia for years now and find it so hard to relax. My family are all overseas, it's hard for hubby to understand and I have an 8 year old to worry about too.

[Peppermintbach]

Hi Lil m,

You’re most welcome. Thank you so much for writing back. I really appreciate it and it’s good to hear from you again.

Your anxiety and phobia must have had such a huge impact on your life. I would think it must be so draining and crippling at times. It must be hard especially when you have other commitments e.g. taking care of your 8 year old.

Maybe I’m wrong but you sound a little lonely. It must be painful that your husband doesn’t understand the depth of your struggles.

I wonder if you have much professional support (e.g. GP, psychologist, etc) in your life as that can be very helpful for a lot of people. Also, I have sometimes found calling helplines helpful to get things off my chest. But of course, you are also most welcome to continue writing on the forums too 🙂

Caring thoughts,

Pepper