hi Alice

Like you I hid symptoms of anxiety for a long time, in my case 40 years!

Recent triggers ( Redundancy, bereavements and house moves ) have proved difficult however, and after suffering in agony and silence for a long time I sought help.

I came to realise that most of my health "issues" such as acid stomach, fatigue, chest pains, lethargy etc etc were not physical but in my mind and directly and wholly attributable to my anxiety.

First step - confessing my issues to my wife, many tears, talking to a GP and not minimising the symptoms as I always did before on my many previous visits! None of this was easy for a 49 year old man with a largely successful career over the last 30 years or so!

Second step - Exercise, diet, lose weight. Take vitamins especially Magnesium.

Third step - The most difficult. CBT and medication ( Citalopram ).

Good luck with whatever course of action you take Alice, but i'd suggest honesty with yourself is the best policy, and seek help.

Best wishes and good health - Robert