Irriational worrying and anxiety (particularlly regarding my kids)

[iloveblue]

Hi
I am struggling at the moment with irrational fears and constant worrying - particularly about my kids when they are away from me. They have been staying with their grandparents this week as DH and I are working and I have been an emotional wreck.
They are due back tomorrow and I know I will feel better once they are back.
They are 9 and 11 and have been away from me for this length of time before, when I went through a similar thing, but it feels like its getting worse. It is the same when they are on school trips or away with friends. I really don't want to go through this and would like to knock it on the head before it gets worse.
Does anyone else experience this and how do you deal with it? Thank you

[0phelia]

Anxiety is a symptom of depression.

Are you worried about something specific, such as worrying they won't come home, or worrying that they aren't being fed the right food, eg?

When I find myself overwhelmed by uncontrollable anxiety, I have visited a professional.

(I'm not a drug pusher but certain prescriptions have really helped me through).

Or you can keep a thought diary listing exactly what you are worried about. This can seriously help you gain perspective.

[iloveblue]

I'm worried that something will happen to them while they are gone. It actually makes me feel a bit better writing it down, so yes a thought diary would probably help, thank you.

[0phelia]

I do find writing it out has helped me.
Calling up every hour on the hour (been there) checking up on things makes you feel worse, and your family feel untrusted.

It's normal to feel slightly uneasy when your children or loved ones are away, but if you are overwhelmed to the point you can't concentrate etc, write out all of the things you are worried might happen, then you can see in plain sight how unlikely they are.