Anxiety is crippling me. Another sleepless night.

[Partsfly]

It's been a tough year and I think it's made me develop an anxiety disorder or something.

Since January, two close relatives have passed, my MIL was diagnosed with a terminal disease, I had a pregnancy loss, and I had to have an operation which has a long recovery and some biopsies taken that I'm still waiting on my results for.

I feel like DH and I have been well and truly kicked in the arse. The only good thing is we both said we feel really close and that we are supporting each other well.

Anyway, since all this happened, I've been struggling to sleep, waking up at 4am gasping for breath after having a bad dream about something totally miniscule, like a photo of my wedding dress from years ago that I don't like? It's bloody bizarre and I'm not sure what my brain is playing at.

Things that didn't used to bother me, are now massive challenges. I can no longer ride the tube or get on a plane due to anxiety, despite managing this fine for years. I couldn't get on the bus the other day as I convinced myself it would crash. I'm only okay when I drive myself and am in control.

Does anyone have any advice? I'm thinking all the unfortunate things that have happened have made me crave having some control back.

You could contact the Samaritans. They're there to talk 24/7 and it often helps to unburden yourself.

Can you see your GP, get a check up and have a discussion about medication. There could be a medical reason for your anxiety. You could also ask about Beta blockers to help with the physical side of the anxiety.

Have you had counselling? Cruse offer bereavement counselling you might find helpful.

You might find listening to something helps if you wake up such as music, ambient sounds like rainfall, an audio book or a meditation app.

Finally you can't go wrong with a magnesium supplement, Vit D and a multi vitamin. Fresh air, exercise and a nutritious diet.

Hope you feel better soon.