Reaching out.

G89 · ‎13-10-2017

For the purposes of this post, I’ll call myself John. I am 28 years old and have been living with some type of anxiety disorder since the age of 10. As a young child, I distinctly recall having textbook OCD – the counting, checking, touching, repeating rituals based on everything and anything. In my teenage years it largely subsided, but only to make room for GAD (generalized anxiety disorder). This too was textbook. The what if’s would repeat over and over and over again. Moving forward 10 or so years, I have developed an ugly eating disorder, body dysmorphia as well as a reoccurrence of both my OCD and GAD. I work in an industry where I deal with separated parents and it is bloody difficult. It has taken a toll my mental health in ways I can’t explain. In the last week I’ve been forced to take some off from work on sick leave because my anxiety and paranoia just became all too much. I have seen various psychologists and psychiatrist and I am currently being treated with therapy and medication. As I don’t have many people to talk to about this, I thought posting on here would be a good idea. I have a daughter who is one year old and a supportive partner, who unfortunately has to put up with me with when I am feeling extremely down. I am not sure if anyone will respond, but it would be nice to hear from others in similar distressing situations.

John.

white knight · ‎14-10-2017

Hi john, welcome

Having a mental illness imo means we are more sensitive to most things around us.

When we undertake positive lifestyle and environmental change, our symtoms can improve. Id suspect working with family is a challenge.

Google these

Topic: be radical- beyondblue

Topic: they just wont understand why?- beyondblue

Also maybe its time to organise a mental health plan? Have a bhat with your GP.

TONY WK

Croix · ‎15-10-2017

Dear John~

I'd like to join Tony WK in welcoming you here. His observations are spot-on and the idea of trying to make your lifestyle one that is as healthy as possible is something I can personally vouch for. Exercise, sensible eating, avoiding trigger situations (as best as you can) plus distraction and reward have all contributed significant to a reduction in my symptoms relating to PTSD, anxiety and bouts of depression.

I too have had a deal of experience in family break-ups, though probably not from the same avenue as you, and realize it to be a major stressor that has left a lasting mark. I eventually found that my occupation needed to be left before I could improve. Unfortunately I did not leave and was eventually invalided out.

One of the things I found to be the greatest help was the support of my partner, who at the time got a very raw deal - or so I thought. She not only had to deal with me, but look after our child, run the household and also go to work. While she could not know what was inside my head she became very sensitive and adept in supporting me, somehow knowing how to react, what to say and do, and not pushing untenable solutions.

Years later we discussed this and she told me she would not have it any other way. Love is pretty powerful I guess. Towards the end of her life I was given the opportunity to support her, and I'm grateful for that.

So John, having a partner who cares and will support you is great fortune

Croix

G89 · ‎15-10-2017

Thanks for both of your replies. I'm off to see my pyschiatrist and psychologist tomorrow for therapy and a medication review. I'll be sure to keep what you have both said in mind.

Croix · ‎16-10-2017

Dear G89~

Well by now you will have seen your medical team and I hope it is working out OK. Unfortunately there is no really quick fix, but there are always things to do to try to make life better and less limiting.

If you would like to let us know how you are getting on we would be pleased

Croix