Stressed out and Confused

[Lookingforward_]

Hey everyone, I am really struggling with my mental health at the moment. I am in my second year of University, i am currently doing really well in my course but i am not enjoying it. I am so anxious and depressed, my mind feels like it is going a million miles an hour and then not even functioning at all. I feel sick just thinking about University but the thought of quitting it is just as hard. I have had really bad episodes of both anxiety and then depression in the past and while it is not at the same level i can feel myself spiralling. I have been on medication for both previously for prolonged periods of time but i don't like myself on medication. While i have been off of medication for over a year, i have recently had to place myself back on it out of fear for my anxiety and depression worsening. I have have been having suicidal  thoughts daily and they in themselves are a big red flag for me. I don't know what to do next, right know I am so exhausted and so stressed. 

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

My daughter, when she went through uni, had anxiety very high, the demands are huge and often living away from home and so on. I have a history of anxiety but eliminated it over a long period of time. However immediate relief can come in several ways, best to try all means to give yourself some relief.

So, relaxation is a general terms that can mean many things to many people. Can I suggest one youtube video every 90 minutes of study time? Then muscle tensioning exercises for 20 minutes before bed. Thats a process whereby you begin at your toes and tension the muscles, then the ankles, calves, thighs right up to your head, then tension all those body muscles at once for 20 seconds. It will lower your blood pressure and make it easier to sleep.

For relaxation I've used Prem Rawat Maharaji for 39 years now. His videos dont include religion however his movement has a religion base. So google that name and add "sunset" and that one of his most relaxing videos. You'll see many others like "all is well" and "the perfect instrument".

Also go for regular walks, its amazing what you observe during those times.

With depression try not to fight it, better to wait until you feel it drifting away before you intensify your workload.

I hope these links help.

https://forums.beyondblue.org.au/t5/depression/depression-and-the-timing-of-motivation/m-p/149725

https://forums.beyondblue.org.au/t5/anxiety/anxiety-how-l-eliminated-it/td-p/183873  

https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/anxiety/treatments-for-anxiety/anxiety-management-strate...

I hope that helps. Please remember to ring lifeline on or the number at the bottom of this page if you feel unsafe. Only a few years ago I walked into a medical centre as I felt unsafe and got the support I needed. Pat yourself on the back for your achievements...

TonyWK

[smallwolf]

hello and welcome.

Sorry you’re feeling this way. It sounds like you’re carrying a lot right now, and want to commend you for recognizing what’s happening and reach out for support.

I'm unsure whether you are getting any professional help ... so... it might help to talk things through with a university counsellor? (They might be able to help you get through this period or get help for you.)

And if it helps any ...I’ve been in a similar situation (few years ago now) where things worsened while I was at uni, and taking some time off helped me. Of course we each have to work out what works for us individually. If you have close friends or family you trust, letting them in on how you’re feeling could also be helpful.

Please take care of yourself, and if things feel overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. You deserve support.

Listening.