Anxious and unsettled about future

[newintown23]

Hello all,

I came across this forum two days when I was looking for something on how best to come when moving interstate (despite having in the past and in new state now). I really wanted to see if anyone else out there could relate to me in some way or give me some guidance. I've found it quite hard in the past as my friends' experiences don't always match up with mine. Plus they don't need to suffer from anxiety like I do. I hope I can return the favour very soon!

Anyway, I'll go back in time a bit. A few years ago, I wanted to move interstate from Canberra and after some kerfuffle in terms of getting a place, I landed in Brisbane ready start to a new chapter of my life. Because I was semi-familiar with the city due to my grandfather and family friends living there, it seemed like a good option. Unfortunately, about 10 months later after not being able to secure a job I wanted and my lease ending, I came home quite depressed and defeated. I luckily was able to get a retail job within a few months (not ideal as I went to uni but a start I thought).

Fast forward to the present and I've recently moved to the sunshine coast with my mother. (Been here 2 weeks to be exact!) The idea was to move to Brisbane again eventually since its a bigger job market and I've always thought of the coast as more a holiday destination.

In the first week and a half here, I was fine. Between moving in and going to the vet for one of our dog's ongoing conditions we've had plenty to do. However, as of last Sunday (I believe because of a question my mother asked me 'about my future plans'), I've started to feel a general sense of anxiety within my body and as of today, uneasiness in my stomach. (I've tried to manage the physical side of things by drinking a ginger juice and peppermint tea. As well, I've tried some mediation but it only goes so far when I've got situational worries. Plus, they can be a bit hit and miss for me).

I worry that I'm overreacting and just to ride it out in terms of my emotions. Perhaps its just a PMS thing? (Although it doesn't feel like it). At the same time, I want to get on top of things, especially if it's relating to my future. I saw a psychologist last year to primarily deal with my anxiety about my future which did help but now I'm here I'm unsure if I should see someone again. Small things like registering for job alerts from Brisbane uni's felt productive for a while but then, later on, I felt anxious again.

Thanks for reading 🙂

[Croix]

Dear Newintown23~

Moving around between cities and having difficulties with accommodation and employment is enough to give anyone stress, it is very worrying. If you add to that the fact you have an anxiety condition it simply makes things worse. I'm not sure from your post if you have the added pressure of study as well.

I guess maybe your mum's remark reminded you of your situation.

As to what to do, can I suggest a two way process? First if your anxiety is high go seek medical help. You did before and have said that it helped. No doubt it can help again.

The other is to try to divide your life, if you need to put in job applications, write resumes and so on then devote a set amout of time each day for these -maybe early morning. Then spend the rest of the day doing other things that are in no way related. This can take a lot of worry out of you by making you concentrate on other things, anything from sport and exercise, to study, hobbies or maybe reading books you enjoy.

Would you like to come back and say what you think?

Croix

[newintown23]

Hello Croix,

Thanks so much for replying to my post and I'm sorry for the delay in reply!! (I admit I got a bit discouraged after the first 48 hours where no-one replied - I know this can be normal -and have had other things on the plate).

I'm not studying or looking to (thank god, don't need another thing in life to consider) but as you "said:

Moving around between cities and having difficulties with accommodation and employment is enough to give anyone stress, it is very worrying. If you add to that the fact you have an anxiety condition it simply makes things worse". So its a lot!

I did end up going to a new doctor this week who ended up being really fantastic. As anyone knows, seeing someone about your mental health is scary (especially if it is new) but luckily she understood anxiety from a personal level, troubles with finding work and parents who are supportive but just can't understand on a deeper level. I went back for a proper mental health plan which was really extensive (much more than my previous doctor) and made sure if I wanted to come in anytime to discuss anything to let her know. She gave me details of a psychologist who should hopefully bulk bill when I ring next week.

When I do get up to job applications (which feels like step 5 or 6 from where I am now) I think your advice is really sound. Job seeking can consume you, especially if you aren't working. I know from previous experience its easy to do so and you can become obsessive (eg checking emails). I like the idea of working of something in the morning or part of the day and making time for things you enjoy.

I hope you are doing Croix! Thanks for responding again - it means a lot!

[Croix]

Dear newintown23~

Yes there are delays in getting replies at times. Please rest assured it is nothing to do with you, or the subject of your post. Simply the system does not work as well as we might wish at times, that's all.

You sound as if you have been making the right moves by visiting a doctor and getting a MH plan, and it looks like you are lucky and have found someone who 'gets it' and clicks with you. That really is of more value than just about anything else.

Possible bulk billing too - fantastic!

I'm doing OK, thanks for asking. Please let us know how you get on

Croix.