Inside Struggle

[happyannie]

Hi

Im writing to have a whinge because today Im having a really bad day, Im just so down and depressed, my anxiety is out of control. I have been sick with the flu as well, which isnt helping. I haven't left the house for over a week and when I did it was for a appointment with my GP.

My agoraphobia is really taking a hold of me now, its out of control. My psychiatrist comes back at the end of the week, so hopefully going on the emergency waiting list will get me to see him, as I dont want to go back to Hospital again.

Just wondering if anyones got some ideas that I could try. I haven't even wanted to go on my computer until now...

Thanx

Annie

[MarkJT]

Hey Happyannie, awesome that you have posted and had a whinge, although i wouldn't call it a whinge, i'd call it being very wise to get your thoughts off your chest and onto the forum so well done on that.

With your anxiety that is out of control, can you take a cple of steps outside of the house then go back inside. Then rest up for a bit then go back outside for a few more steps and then back inside if you are out of your comfort zone.

Don't know if you can or not but i suggest this as when i was diagnosed with PTSD, depression and anxiety, I suddenly developed a fear of trains. I knew i had to get used to them again as they are part of my life to get to and from work.

What I did was get on the local train at around 2.00 p.m. which meant that it was basically empty and went one stop and got out. Then i rested up and then went two stops etc. Basically learning to get used to it again bit by bit.

Perhaps stick some headphones on with some of your favorite music to distract you somewhat?

Have you got a friend that you can get over to give you a hand with it as well?

Have you tried practicing mindfulness? I do this a lot and it helps keep me calm. If you have not as yet, there are plenty of good apps that you can use.

Keep posting and i, and others, will help you as best we can get through this part of your journey and support you for the rest of it.

Mark.

[happyannie]

Hi MarkJT

Thank you for your advise I really appreciate the support. I have my husband who is amazing he does things for me and he is also my full time carer. We have been married for 25 years this September and without him I would be lost.

I practise mindfulness all the time, which helps me to calm down.

I also have wonderful medical help and support.

My psychologist and I are going to focus on my agoraphobia this year, thank goodness.

I will try your idea of taking a few steps outside a bit at a time.

Im so pleased I joined this forum, its truly amazing

Thank you once again for your help

Annie

[BballJ]

Hi happyannie,

Nothing wrong with getting stuff off your mind here, it's what is for.

I like Mark's suggestion about putting some music on, that always relaxes me, or maybe a nice walk somewhere?

Hopefully you'll get to see your psychiatrist sooner rather than later and get the help you seek.

Previously, has your psychiatrist put in coping methods for when these bad days happen?

My best for you,

Jay

[MarkJT]

Annie, from what I see you are well and truly switched on to what is going on, you have wonderful support and you have a desire to get this under control. That to me = recovery. It will just take time. Recovering from mental health illnesses and injuries takes time.

Awesome to have you on the forums - nothing but pure support and advice. I have found the forums to be very educational also. I have learnt so much about so many things. Its awesome.

Your hubby sounds brilliant - does he know there is a partners and carers section on the forum? Not that he may need it at all, just a good reference point for him if he needed it.

Really interested to follow your journey Annie and more than happy to continue to engage with you in here to support you through it.

Take care.

Mark.