Feeling so trapped in anxiety.

[Tamkay]

My anxiety has only really started to affect my life over the past few months. Though the past few weeks it has had a huge impact.

I constantly have this voice in my head which tells me no one really cares about me and that everything I'm doing is wrong. I feel so down & frustrated all the time because I'm alone. But I'm to scared to go out & socialise. 

I always feel so uncomfortable, even with friends who were once really close.  My boyfriend gets annoyed because I tell him how I feel and he just says I'm being negative all the time & that everyone does like me & want me to go out places. 

I really just feel like living life is such a chore. I have had two panic attacks at work where I have had trouble breathing & was shaking uncontrollably. 

I always feel so scared of everyday people.. I have really low self esteem & just don't know where to go from here. 

[shad0wings]

Hi Tamkay! 

I'm not a doctor, however, it sounds like you are experiencing symptoms of depression. Anxiety and depression both go hand in hand really. Have you seen a counsellor? therapist? Because what you're feeling is exactly what depression feels like... the lack of energy, not finding enjoyment in things you used to do, not wanting to socialise.. the list goes on. 

And no you are not being negative all the time and never think that anything you are feeling is your fault, these things are called mental 'illnesses' for a reason. 

Try talking to a close friend or family member. If not organise an appointment with a local counsellor.

You sound like an extremely strong person, be proud of yourself because I know it's not easy at all!

~ Taylor

[morgs29]

Hi Tamkay,

Thanks so much for reaching out to us. It's not an easy thing to do! I'm sorry to hear you're dealing with these feelings that are getting you so down. I want to start by saying you are not being 'negative all the time'; you are experiencing anxiety. 

I would really recommend going to a GP (if you haven't already) and access some professional help, like a counsellor or psychologist. It's really hard dealing with these things on your own and seeing someone who knows how to guide you makes a world of difference.

I have suffered with depression and anxiety since I was a teenager, and it's taken me a long time to know what works for me. But the day I started putting myself and my needs first was when I truly stepped onto the road of recovery.

I'm also sorry to hear your boyfriend is getting upset with you. He may also be worried and not understand what you are going through. Make sure you surround yourself with people who love and understand you and want to support you through your dark times.

Also, make sure to check out the fact sheets on the beyondblue website about anxiety. Remember, there is also the online chat and helpline options if you need to speak directly to someone in real time.

Take care and hold your head up. You have a lot of courage to reach out and want to see the other side of these feelings you are experiencing.

Morgan

[Cyril33]

Hi tamkay,

Sounds like you have being suffering for a while all I can say is go and see your gp and tell them how your feeling they can refer too other resources and suggest medications and counselling I have suffered from depression for 17 years if you ever need help just reply this too this post.

Cheers justin.