Can't live my life because I am continuously anxious

[Babyjo]

Hello everyone (: I will make this brief as I can so I don't bore you too much. 

Basically I have had mild anxiety attacks for a few years just at random maybe once a month, but for the past few months it has been a daily struggle. No matter where I go what I do, I get panic attacks and can't think straight, it makes me not want to go out or go to work because I constantly worry about passing out because of the physical effects of my anxiety.

I have also lost quiet a few friends this year, and feel very alone. I am 20 years old, I'm very slim and I know I'm not ugly so it's not a confidence issue. I'm not sure if it's my anxiety that's pushing people away, but I just can't make close friends, I feel like girls are just all mean and jealous (I have dealt with that growing up). I'm just so lost and sad, I honestly don't know what to do I just want a whole new life 😞 please someone help me all I want to do is sit in my apartment

thank you xxx

[bjames]

Hi Babjo,

 I am very sorry you feel like you do at such a young age.  I too suffer from high levels of anxiety.  I don't proclaim to be an expert, but i can say that I know how it feels to have anxiety and to deal with struggles.  Firstly, I think you need to see a professional to sort out what is triggering your anxiety.  My anxiety was at a level for nearly a year where I just felt sick all day, I  trembled constantly and I just didn't want to face it every day.  I saw a doctor and we worked on some medication to help me deal with it.  Trust me, I was the most sceptical person about getting help (still am to a point), especially getting on medication to cope.  I refused to ask for help until I got to a stage where i had no choice.  As sceptical as I was, medication for my anxiety and depression really really helped.  I no longer wake up each morning having that feeling of dread and nervousness attack me.  I am in a much better place to where i was even though I still have a considerable way to go to even remotely get back to some normalcy.

Hey, as far as friends are concerned, you will find that in your 20's you won't encounter the petty jealousies and the immature attitudes as much.  I know you hate hearing this, but you are still very young and as you get into your 20's further, that crap/bs becomes less of a worry for you.  Try not to get hung up on the fact that you have difficulties in finding new friends.  Just give it time!  At your age it is not uncommon to grow away from old childhood friends and then make new friends in adulthood who are on a similar path to you.  Do you have family you can rely on?  If so, please don't be afraid to just lean on them when you are feeling down or anxious.  I have been to the lowest of lows to a point where i thought there was no escape.  I've come through that and have experienced a lot of the anxiety that you have felt.  I am in a much better place even though my life is not great at the moment and I lead a reclusive life.  BUT, if you get your anxiety sorted out, which you can, you will find it will greatly improve your mental state.  My advise is to see a doctor or a professional to see what is triggering it.  They are the best people to get you on the right track.  

Lastly,  please remember, you are not alone.  There are many people in the same boat as you and many that are will to help, even if it is to bitch and moan about your situation.

BJ

[White_Rose]

Dear Babyjo

Hello and welcome to Beyond Blue. Anxiety is horrible and getting panic attacks is worse. So I heartily endorse the words of BJ. Please go and have a chat with your GP and tell him/her what has been happening. You may like to copy and print your post to give your doctor to read.

Would love to know how you go.

Mary

[Zeal]

Hi Babyjo,

Welcome to the forum!

I am a 22 year old female, and I have lived with anxiety (OCD) since the age of 13. Making and keeping true friends can be challenging. Once you meet the right people though, it will be a great relief. Since being out of high school, I have lost contact with all but one of my school friends. I was in a social group at school, but I wasn't as actively involved as I would have liked to be. This time last year I met a great new group of people, thanks to my oldest and best friend. I have known her through thick and thin, though we almost had a falling-out several years ago. That was very hard, as I feared we would lose each other as friends. Girls can be mean, but there are enough of us out there who honestly just want to get along with others and feel secure in our relationships. I generally dislike gossip, and I am careful to not say things behind people's backs which could be construed as hurtful or mean (even if people around me are doing so).

Try talking to family members about this. I have found great comfort in talking things through with my Mum, as I know I can always trust her. If you feel you need more help, you can see your GP for a referral to a counsellor or psychologist.

Best wishes,

SM