Anxiety

[Starzzzzz]

Not AIBU so I apologise. Posting for quick replies.

My anxiety is crippling me. I've been anxious since I was a child, but improved slightly in the last few years. However, pressures with work as well as home life (to a lesser extent) have increased the symptoms tenfold.

I can't sleep without over-the-counter sleeping tablets. I analyse every single thing I do and say, and think the worst. I am constantly urinating and having an upset stomach due to stress. My hair is thinning and I generally feel terrible.

I have been on medication in the past but I am loathe to do this again. I just wondered if anyone knew if there was a number (like the samaritans I suppose), who people can ring when they're feeling anxious or depressed? Sometimes I need someone to just talk to and get some perspective. Or whether CBT or counselling is available on the NHS? Thanks in advance

Visit your gp

Seriously

Try meditating. Headspace is a fantastic app x

Medication - i can't manage without it. I will be on it for life

Propanalol is helping me immensely. Headspace app is brilliant, as is Calm.

I try and do yoga when I can too and that helps. You need to go and speak to your GP x

Absolutely go to your gp, there were group stress workshops in my area which were brilliant, been able to ride out anxiety attacks far more effectively because of them.

Another vote for mindfulness and meditation.

Also, go to your GP.

Can you access online CBT talking therapies where you live? Retraining those inner voices really helps.

I've never heard of online CBT - does it have a name?

OP, definitely speak to your GP. I was recently feeling absolutely shite with anxiety and depression. I went to the GP for help with that and they actually did a blood test which found out I was seriously anemic. Which can aggravate things like depression and anxiety. Getting that under control along with antidepressants and CBT helped.

It really is something that needs a holistic approach.

Is the organisation " Depression Alliance" to be found in your area? In the past I found them very useful. We just met up and talked about it, over tea and stuff; surprising how true the old saying " a trouble shared is a trouble halved" can be.

I hope you find some help, I really do.