Anxiety Veteran- Forum Rookie

[cork730]

Hi All!

I have had pretty substantial anxiety for just over a year now. I have read books, taken medication, done different techniques, and here I am a year later with anxiety that still lingers.

I struggle with thoughts that turn into physical symptoms. It's saddening when it comes back. I have gone 3 straight weeks without a hint of anxiety. And it's back. I know setbacks are expected, but they get harder to deal with. I'm feeling defeated. It's weird, I haven't cried in years and last night I got the urge to. I'm a dude and never cry, so it was the weirdest thing ever. It's starting to depress me.

Anyways I wanted to introduce myself to the forum and see if anyone out there has some advice.

Thanks!

Cork

[Enduronman]

Welcome friend!!

Enduronman.

[cork730]

Anyone have some advice on dealing with setbacks? I go long periods without anxiety and then it comes back with a vengeance. Symptoms are anxious thoughts sweating, shortness of breath. I can deal alright with the symptoms until it starts affecting my sleep. The thoughts are worse for me.

[cork730]

Guess not!

[Sedigive]

Your question is not very easy. Anxiety can be sneaking and hit you from different sides. For me, it has changed a lot over the years. I have had attacks on and off since I was 11. I am 42 now. Right now I am struggling with health anxiety issues. The apparent trigger was my Uncle's recent death of a heart attack at age 56 before that my main anxiety triggers were financial in nature. I mainly try and keep myself distracted with different things so I wont dwell on the fears.

[Chiliphil1]

The best advice I can offer on setbacks is, don't get discouraged.

You have been better and free of it, so you know you can be. Think of it like a bug, everyone gets sick sometimes but when it goes you feel good again, but it comes back and you have to deal with it before you're back to yourself again.

Don't take for granted when anxiety is not around, keep on your coping and relaxation techniques and when it comes back be ready for it.