Hi New to the Forum Well known to anxiety

[Lotte]

Hey everyone. My name is Jay and I have had anxiety for a very long time. To be honest probably most of my adult life. I developed anorexia at 17 and was anxiety free until then (although an incredibly worried and perfectionist type) after the anorexia (for which I received no psychiatric assistance but was hospitalised for two months) I developed my first panic attack at about 19. since then it has been an extreme rollarcoaster. I had a few years in the beginning where they were few and far between but at the age of 24 I ended up completely and utterly housebound. Unable to go out for three years (even to my back deck). Round the age of 27 something kicked in and I managed a few good years back to work and generally getting out and about. I am 34 now and the anxiety has got a strong hold on me and has had for a few years. I can go out but not unassisted. I can't catch public transport and struggle to do basics like grocery shopping. It's frustrating. My therapy is on/off due to financial costs. I have thought of ending my life many many lonely and dark times as I don't have much support. I am happy to meet you all but saddened to be suffering this for want of a better word, crappy affliction with you.

[Literophile]

Hey, glad to meet such a strong person. That you were able to fight it off for so long--Grats! Even now, fighting it in every way possible. Keep going, be a beacon in dark times!

I myself am 19 and struggling hard with anxiety. I often have to take days off work, and I only volunteer two days a week for two hours at a time; I don't even WORK. I'm glad to see someone can make it. It gives me hope.

We're with you, and we're glad to have you with us, but wish it was under better circumstances.

[Lotte]

Thank you so much for your kind words. I cannot believe I am still here most days but I really want to see a light at the end of this tunnel. I truly do. I look forward to talking to you guys and getting to know your stories. :)

[Literophile]

Well, if you see a light at the end of a tunnel it's not going to be a train. It'll be a way out. You've made it out once, you will do it again.

I look forward to getting to know you better. *highfive* :)

[jar4u]

Hey jay, Relax my friend, Anxiety is indeed crippling i totally feel you mate, The only way to stop anxiety is to know what is giving you high anxiety and avoid those things, but if its unavoidable then challenge it head on, (Understand one thing that all the symptoms related with anxiety disorder are absolutely harmless) Anxiety creeps in slowly and also takes a few days or weeks to settle down, I am 33 and in perfect health, but sometimes when stressed or get some financial issues do get heavily anxious, but i understand the symptoms now and give it no importance and continue with my regular work and soon the symptoms fade away, Also it is most important to eat right and keep yourself busy with some interesting work..Hope it helps you mate:):):)