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AIBU?

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Original poster

To be a bit scared

33 replies

Barbiepringle · 29/07/2023 11:50

I always struggle with eating when I’m anxious and I am very anxious at the moment.
Since Monday I’ve had one plain biscuit and half a slice of toast.
I called the doctor yesterday and they prescribed sertraline but it takes a little while to kick in. i asked them to see me but they said the next appointment was 9th August.
I am now being sick and my stomach is upset. My BMI at the start of the week was around 19 and I think I’ve lost 5lbs since then.

My heart feels too fast.
I am a bit scared.

OP posts:
Thelnebriati · 29/07/2023 12:09

Look at breathing to reset the vagus nerve, and try to drink some thin soup or yoghurt. You can fortify it with whatever is suitable for your diet - milk powder, whey powder, olive oil.
(Breathe in through your nose, hold it, and breath out through your mouth. Count, and try to gradually increase from a count of 3 to 4, then 5.)

Original poster
Barbiepringle · 29/07/2023 12:04

I’m a t1 diabetic so sugary drinks etc won’t work for me.
But I will try some food that isn’t dry. Maybe that will help.
It is a vicious circle. My heart rate is too fast.

OP posts:
Dombasle · 29/07/2023 12:01

I can't afford to lose weight as I'm quite slender and once I completely lost my appetite and just couldn't eat.

I forced myself to eat a one egg omelette with a little grated cheese and ate one a day for weeks until my appetite gradually came back.

Omelettes are easy to swallow.

cloudglazer · 29/07/2023 12:01

Do you have any calming strategies? Such as grounding, or breathing that might help you calm enough to drink some juice or eat something soft? I can suggest some if you don't.

Dombasle · 29/07/2023 11:59

What about making food into a purée?

TheInterceptor · 29/07/2023 11:58

Can you try drinking some calories to get your blood sugar / bp up? A smoothie, milkshake, clear broth? Dry food is terrible to get down if you're feeling anxious.

Original poster
Barbiepringle · 29/07/2023 11:58

Thank you.
I am managing to drink.
The inability to eat is from the anxiety. I’m so anxious I can’t eat. It’s not a deliberate withholding of food. I try and eat but am unable to swallow it because I feel so anxious.

OP posts:
cloudglazer · 29/07/2023 11:56

I am really sorry things are so hard for you. Can you drink some water? It might help you calm a little. And then if you can, run your wrists under some cold water for a few minutes to steady yourself.
Do you have anyone around you can talk to about your anxiety? Have you had some treatment for your eating worries?