Never been on an anxiety forum before! :/ Help!

[kc8]

Hi,

I recently tried to get help for my anxiety but the waiting lists are so long to see therapists so I thought the best thing would be to come to a group like this! For years, I've suffered badly from anxiety with very real physical symptoms. I have constant chest pain where my heart is, pain in my left arm, palpitations, irregular heartbeat etc. This all gets worse when I exercise. I can't be home alone for fear that I'm going to have a heart attack. It sounds ridiculous!!

I've been for various ECGs which have been normal (1 borderline abnormal) and I'm waiting to have a heart scan but my doctor thinks it will be fine. I'm a sociable 26 year old girl of normal weight and it's taking over my life. It has ruined relationships and made me move home from living abroad. Does anyone else have these symptoms?? Do you have any techniques that work for anxiety??

Thank you! :)

[MainerMikeBrown]

KC8, if the waiting lists to see a therapist and/or a psychiatrist are too long for you, I'd recommend seeing a family doctor who is familiar with psychiatric medications.

[kc8]

Thanks for your advice! I've managed to get onto a shorter waiting list for an NHS therapist, telephone assessment 3rd October. Fingers crossed!

[MiST]

Welcome to the community..:)

[Den]

Thanks for your advice! I've managed to get onto a shorter waiting list for an NHS therapist, telephone assessment 3rd October. Fingers crossed!

Hi, I would also recommend going to your GP and getting some medication in the 1st instance, while you wait for other therapy options. It's not ideal, and there can be some side effects but, believe me, it can work. Good luck.