First time on a anxiety forum, need help..........

[WFBtiger]

I will try and keep this simple. I have had a history of anxiety and panic attacks first of all. I recently, within the last year, have been through a good deal of stress. Got married, had a son, bought a house, had a death in the family, lost my job, and just recently got another job away from my family. I was under a good deal of family pressure to take this job. I was at my job 6 days and they asked me to fly out to Richland, Washington for a while. I have been a nervous wreck ever since. I haven't been able to sleep or eat. I was told that there would be travel in this job but I believe I underestimated how much I would not like it due to the fact that I am scared to fly. The job also makes me feel like a fish out of water because I am the only one on the floor that isn't an engineer. Family help was instrumental in me getting this "position". Not to mention my wife and son have been visiting another state for some time. I am to the point where in my mind the only thing that would calm me down is to either get out of this trip or quit and i've tried getting out of the trip. I could really use some advice.

[Charlene]

My gosh, you've had a very busy year! No wonder you're having a rough go of it.
I really understand what you're feeling, we all do. Anxiety and panic sufferers have a difficult time living stressful lives. And believe me, from what you've written here, your's is stressful to the max! We generally do much better when we feel we have control of the pace of things. The fact that you're not eating and not sleeping, this is going to make your symptoms feel most unbearable. Times are tough right now with the economy and I know you want to show your family that you can provide for them. You probably feel blessed just having the job. However, you're really struggling here. Have you spoken with your wife about this? Not that it's any of my business, but is she aware of your disorder? Having her support in understanding your situation might take a load off. Granted, it won't remove your panic completely but it might take an ounce off of your shoulders. You don't have to be the hero all of the time, you know. You're human. And right now, you're having a really hard time dealing with all that's happened. Who wouldn't? You've put so much pressure on yourself, you don't have to shoulder everything. Will your company let you out of the trip? Can you go back home soon?
In the meantime, you have all of us here. You can lean on us.

[dtrotter]

i think all you need is a break. Stop pushing yourself so harsh and hard. life is wonderful you know? life is not about working your life up...