Feeling scared

[Tracey_wds]

Hi this site is new to me . 26 years ago I had a nervous break down and was seeing the mental health team up until I had my son 21 years ago. I have up and downs during this period but never to the effect I was before my son was born. I have recently been having anxiety attacks and some horrible thoughts about things, and I am becoming really scared that I am getting ill again . I have held off going to the Doctor hoping that it will just pass and I will be back to old myself . I used to take medication prior to my son being born. I live in australia alone with no friends here and have no one to talk to. I am scared to talk to my dad as he will be really worried that I will do something silly. It crazy because I am a nurse and know am being silly.

[Zeal]

Hi Tracey,

Welcome to the forum!

First off, you are not being silly at all. You know something is not right with your mental health, and you are really concerned. As you've had negative experiences with mental illness before, it's understandable that you fear a relapse. Seeing your doctor (GP) as soon as you can is important. Even if your mental health does start improving, it never hurts to check-in with your doctor. Though your Dad will be concerned about you, this doesn't mean you shouldn't talk to him. I think he would rather know what is going on, instead of finding out later.

Here are a few useful resources (not a replacement for in-person support):

http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/infopax.cfm?Info_ID=44 (panic attacks)

http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resources/infopax.cfm?Info_ID=46 (anxiety)

http://www.thepanicroomsa.com/links

It's crucial that you seek help about the anxiety attacks and intrusive thoughts. Make an appointment ASAP!

Best wishes,

Zeal

[geoff]

hi Tracey, welcome to the site and thanks for posting your comment.
Once you have had a breakdown those horrific memories never seem to leave you, and if you feel as though you are beginning to slide back to those terrible days, means that you have to go and see your doctor.
We all try hard to ward off any mental illness, but it's too strong and it will overtake you no matter how hard you try to avoid it, unfortunately you have been through this once before and you know how powerful mental illness is, and I'm sure you have seen it many times in hospital watching people suffer from depression, and it's always something we hope we never get again, but it's always very possible, and this is what is happening with you.
Please make an appointment to see your doctor and if you could check out the sites that Zeal has provided for you that would be great, but realise it's something that you need to do. Geoff. x

[Tracey_wds]

Hi thanks you for your reply . I took the first step and have seen my GP who put me on a antidepressant to help. I have also booked an appointment with a counsellor next week. I did talk to my dad and burst into tears but I did feel better after talking to him. I was aways taught to recognise when I am having difficulties and to seek help but I do feel like I have failed by seeking help. Our minds are very powerful tools and can play tricks on you, this is scary especially when its been a long time since I felt this bad. Thanks u for your support Tracey