Anxiety

[Shelleybob83]

Hi, only recently I have started to feel anxious, well i think it's anxiety... i feel overwhelmed and like i can't breathe, like I have something heavy on my chest.

It's an awful feeling and usually get it when i'm sat at home of an evening. I have recently started to try and 'chill out' a bit in the evening as i travel quite far to work and rarely get any time to myself so I am trying to make a conscientious effort but feeling like this is putting me off resting..

Any tips on how I can stop this feeling?? :-/

Thanks in advance
SB

[pixie373]

It's a horrible feeling. Would you be able to go for a walk after work to get rid of the stress/adrenaline? Please don't let it put you off, as it's your body telling you it's struggling. Try warm baths, books, decaffeinated drinks, but keep with it. Also, try breathing in for 3 seconds, hold it 3 seconds, breathe out for 3 seconds and hold it again for 3.

[Shelleybob83]

Thanks Pixie, I have switched to decaf tea at work already and watch tv to try and calm down (never been one to watch more than a football match tbh). I've just tried the breathing you have suggested and it's helping...

Thank you :)

[pixie373]

Good, I'm glad. I used a paper bag to breathe in and out of for a couple of minutes. Felt silly, but it did work.

[ordbrae]

Seek help urgently.Recovered sufferers often attribute their recovery to finding God I can vouch for this.

[boxtops]

If it doesn't settle, go and have a word with your GP. Relaxation can be the key (as I know from experience) - a bit of massage, swimming, getting half an hour in the bath to yourself..... Let us know how you get on. We're here if you want to talk about it.

[DJHawkes]

my doctor has so far signed me off for 3 weeks and given me various drugs. they are not working as well as knowing I don't have to go to work. you need a rest. remember, we're all going to have to work longer, pace yourself (sez me tut)

[Gavmacp]

Try something called EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique). You will find how to do it on YouTube. When you first start looking at it, it will sound like the biggest load of rubbish you have ever come across. But be assured it does work.
Take care of yourself!!

[Connemmara]

Just about to log off - very familiar with you shelley. Even my cousin said to me at 9.30 pm - why are you so anxious - would you not need counselling.

I have so many skeletons in my cupboard - that I will take the skeletons to my grave - and I think this is causing my anxiety. loopdeloop that is me. Conne

[boxtops]

Sometimes there is no obvious reason about anxiety states, that's the devil in it - it comes upon you unawares. Do you have to drive your journey, or is it public transport?

[douglas9401]

Make an appointment with your doctor and try to have a list of symptoms including if it applies, the order in which they come about.
It's all a lot more common than you'd believe and therapy can work wonders.
I had three sessions comprising, I thought mostly having a chat but, presto magico. cured.
Good luck.

[yogasun]

Hi Shelley
Pixie's advice is just brilliant, but having taught breathing exercises for over 30 years just to add that if you can make the exhalations a bit longer than the inhalations, etc it is more conducive to a relaxed feeling -(think of a long sigh) I often suggest double the inhale length (if it is comfortable)

[Shelleybob83]

Thanks everyone, I only get it whenever I am relaxing. I do drive to work and in the winter it is an horrendous journey but I listen to music which I find does help.

I haven't been very well recently and I think that might be why I am feeling like this as it has really knocked me and I feel a little out of control as I have had to take time off work which isn't like me.

Thank you for all your comments and suggestions, I will be sure to check them out.

Take care x

[DJHawkes]

my gp has signed me off today for a further 3 weeks and he's given me this website to look at:
http://www.getselfhelp.co.uk/

i've read quite a bit of it and found what relates to how i am feeling and it has helped me work out what i need to concentrate on.

[Connemmara]

well done dotty for getting more leave - you deserve it. Conne