i feel my anxiety is making me miss out on life

abigail_rose · ‎28-12-2016

i started getting anxiety a year ago. it has progressively gotten worse and is starting to haunt me, i feel that i am missing out on friends and being sociable because i am afraid. it is making me sad and lonely and even more anxious. while everyone else is making new friends i am too afraid to put myself out there. i have been through a lot in the past 2 years and i feel like it is starting to have a very negative impact on my life. i think i should see a councelor. i cant keep feeling this way. i know that i need help. it effects me in my job and with my friends. i am afraid i am going to end up with no one. please help me

Starwolf · ‎29-12-2016

Hi Abigail Rose, welcome to the forums.

Well done for acknowledging there is a problem and reaching out. A brave and wise decision.

It is true that anxiety can negatively affect every area of life. It is a medical condition and needs to be treated as such. The first step would be to book a GP appointment. You may need medication to help you function adequately in everyday situations. And/or you may need to be referred to a counselor. The good news is with help and support, it is manageable. It can and will get better.You can reclaim the peace of mind that you deserve.

So please take good care of yourself. No need to struggle alone with this distressful situation.

While waiting for a proper diagnosis, you can read more info in the Facts section at the top left of this page. Coping strategies like Relaxed Breathing, Relaxed Body Scan, Mindfulness can be googled. Smiling Mind is a useful app to download. Those techniques are more effective if practiced daily. The mind will find it easier to slip into relaxed mode when most needed when habit has been formed (a competition is not the right time to start practicing your moves !). Persistence is the key.

Kindest thoughts.

MsPurple · ‎29-12-2016

Hi abigail rose. I wrote an analogy to describe my anxiety and I thought I would share it.

Unfortunately anxiety disorders can be like the beach. Sometimes the water is smooth, sometimes a few waves and others it can be really rough and hard to swim in. It is easier to swim in the smooth surf but in the rough surf it can make you feel like you are going to drown. The tools doctors, counselling and possibly medication (note only if the dr thinks it is appropriate, many don't need them) can help you handle the surf better even in the rough days. Now remember you will still experience rough surf, but with the tools and help it is kinda like they throw you a surf board so you feel as if you can handle the surf better and you don't feel like you are drowning. Unfortunately when they throw you the surf board they miss a few times. It can take a while to find the appropriate tools and strategies that work for you. This is normal and yes very frustrating

In saying this I suggest taking the first step and talking to your GP about your concerns. It can be really hard and scary to take the first step, but I am so glad I took it (like many other users on here). I saw a therapist and I found talking about my issues and some CBT really helped me with my anxiety. I still have anxiety and rough days, but I can handle it a lot better. My bad days now are nothing compared how they used to be. If I could turn back time and get help earlier (I was 23 when officially diagnosed which was around 18months ago) I would. I went through headspace as this worked for me but just by going to a GP they can refer you to a therapist and help you out. Make sure you book a long appointment

Willow Jude · ‎03-01-2017

Hi Abigail Rose,

I admire your courage for sharing your story, and for being open to talking to someone about your mental health.

When I was particularly struggling with my anxiety, I knew it was stopping me from doing the things I enjoyed, interacting with friends, being confident, etc., and it was definitely impacting on my daily life. And as much as I tried silencing the thoughts in my head, I just couldn't. It took me a while, but I eventually reached out and received help, and it is probably the best decision I have ever made. The treatment (medication in my case) has given me the power to acknowledge and move past any negative thoughts in my mind, and, for the most part, I am able to enjoy my life how I want to.

I can see how much you want to be able to live your life without being held back by anxiety, and I want you to know it is 100% possible. There is a light at the end of the tunnel, and you are definitely not alone in your journey of seeking it. I would really encourage you to get help through an avenue you feel comfortable with. The suggestions made above are fantastic, and you've already taken the first step by posting on here.

- WJ