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Is this anxiety or something else?

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Anxiety & Panic Disorders
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Posted 10/26/2015 12:24 PM (GMT -5)
I'm new to anxiety (at least being aware I suffer from it) and I'm really trying to be vigilant in being aware of how I'm feeling.

Today I realized that for the most part I'm experiencing my symptoms all day every day, with very brief periods of being symptom free. The symptoms I'm talking about are an increased heart rate, quicker breathing, getting hot, being restless, my mind is completely overwhelmed and I can't concentrate on any of my thoughts or anything that I'm supposed to be doing (work), I feel a sense of panic and being overwhelmed, I overanalyze things and start to create "what if" scenarios that upset me, etc. The littlest thing stresses me out severely and increases these feelings.

To me I was thinking of anxiety as being something that is triggered by something else and therefore isn't a consistent all day feeling. I'm just wondering if I'm wrong. Is it possible to feel anxiety for such a long amount of time - basically nonstop? I know there are meds that help anxiety but I thought they are for "attacks". Am I wrong?

Thank you!
Posted 10/26/2015 12:48 PM (GMT -5)
SFN,

There is a difference between what is considered appropriate situational anxiety...

...and chronic anxiety/GAD/panic disorder. ..which is what happens when anxiety goes beyond what is considered 'normal'.

So to answer your question in short...yes, it is expected with an anxiety disorder to have symptoms consistently...whether or not there is a present trigger reason for it.

Medication and or therapy are typically the recommended treatments for GAD and A/P. Talking with your doctor about which option (s) is right for you is a wise step.

Getting started with the self help in our Resources is worth the time and effort as well...so be sure and check them out if you've not done so already.:)

Keep posting. ..we are cheering you on towards recovery!

S.C.
Posted 10/26/2015 2:03 PM (GMT -5)
Thank you!

I have been reading the resources and tonight I see my counselor for my 1st "normal" appointment, then I rescheduled with my med Dr for tomorrow to reevaluate the meds I'm currently on. It feels good to have some sort of plan rather than just sitting aside hopelessly.
Posted 10/26/2015 2:43 PM (GMT -5)

SFN,

Absolutely!!  Having a direction and goals goes a really long way in bringing about a feeling of relief and hope!  I am also glad to hear the Resources are something you are using to your advantage...they have helped me immensely!

Wishing you a great session tonight, and consultation tomorrow!

Let us know how these both go.:)

Keep up the great work and posting!

S.C.

Posted 10/26/2015 10:46 PM (GMT -5)
Yes those are pretty much textbook examples of anxiety. Welcome to the club smilewinkgrin

The bad news is, it's upsetting. Some days/moments, worse than others. The good news is, it's treatable and also a very "good" reminder that perhaps we w/anxiety, have some self work/healing to do.

You're doing the exact right things by having a plan, checking out resources and having a Dr & therapist on board. Bravo- you are already on the path to healing! It may not come as quickly as you'd like but you can & will heal/get remission and respite from it.

Best wishes!
Posted 10/27/2015 1:41 AM (GMT -5)
Hi everyone,

i am new to this discussion and i having anxiety disorder from past two years..i have tried medications for curing my anxiety..is there any other way to cure anxiety??
Posted 10/27/2015 4:23 AM (GMT -5)
Hi

Yes those are classic symptoms of anxiety.

I have GAD so I feel anxious most days but by using the coping skills I have learned in therapy I am able to manage my symptoms better. Look into Mindfulness Meditation as I find that really helpful you will find lots of videos on youtube.

Hibee
Posted 10/27/2015 5:18 AM (GMT -5)
Yes it is definitely possible to feel anxiety for prolonged periods of time, and it is horrible. You dont need to have full blown panic attacks to have an anxiety problem. I'm sure most people on here have experienced it, especially in the beginning when we are not used to dealing with anxiety problems and dont have the right coping skills.

Depression and anxiety usually come together as well, and thankfully the same medication can be used to treat both. Hope the therapy goes well, I found CBT quite useful for anxiety, and Autogenic Training is a self relaxation technique that made a massive difference to my overall anxiety levels.
Posted 10/27/2015 10:49 AM (GMT -5)
Hello Exlpharmacy and welcome.

There are a excellent treatment options beyond medications to be explored.

Therapy and self help are both effective in helping one manage their anxiety issues. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in particular is something to ask your doctor about...as he/she likely can make a referral to a mental health practictioner who could treat you.

For self help, please see our Resources here at the top of the main forum page for coping skills that will bring relief if practiced daily.

I hope you find the help you need, and make progress in your journey. Post anytime with us for anxiety support!

Scaredy Cat
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