Need some reassurance and a hand hold

[FeelingAwfulAndScared]

I started taking HRT a month ago. I am not sure if it is because it kicked in or a placebo effect but over the last few weeks I have been feeling good. In a word, more positive and in control. That was until last night!

Aside from some physical symptoms, I have had really bad anxiety and some depression. A permanent low feeling and I have shied away from doing some normal things. I have been taking the HRT to take the edge off this.

My DH travels a lot for work. It isn't a new thing, he has done it for decades and I have been fine with it. Enjoyed the space even. Anyway, he has just gone away for 5 nights. During this time in my life it is a comfort to me when he is around as I feel I have backup with my 2 DC and it takes the edge off my feelings of guilt or not being able to cope. One of my main fears is "am I losing the plot" which my GP says is a normal feeling. Anyway, I was upset yesterday because he was going away to the other side of the world, I will be alone for 5 nights and I was feeling really emotional anyway (think crying at things on TV) because my period is due in the next day. I went to bed early and woke at 1230 having a massive anxiety/panic attack about not being able to get through the next few days. It was awful. I couldn't call anyone or speak to anyone about it and I got really scared. I eventually went back to sleep thank god but am really shaken today. I have 4 more nights till he comes back and not sure how I am going to get through it. I literally have no one who can help me.

Any tips or I'd welcome just a bit of support.

Sorry to hear you're having a rough time, it may be that the HRT hasn't fully kicked in yet. Sorry I have no tips to help but can definitely offer a virtual hug. Maybe try not to think about the time he's away in a big chunk, and break it down, maybe just think about the next hour - can you cope for an hour? That seems doable, so then just think about the next hour. Before long, you'll be through another day. :) I've not posted on here much but have felt like someone is listening when I have.
Let us know how you are getting on. I'm sure someone with more practical advice will be along!!
Hugs. :)

The anxiety that peri/menopause can bring is horrid, sorry you're experiencing this. I think you've had good advice already but just wanted to show some support too. Be kind to yourself - what advice or words of comfort would you give to a friend in a similar position? You will cope, you'll get through the next few days, and once your DH is home you can maybe look into your HRT regime and see what can be adjusted to help with your anxiety. There will be a solution - and keep posting here if it helps.

practical tips- there is CBT online ( free courses) which may help with your anxiety.

Or you could try 1:1 with a practitioner.

Or the book Mind over Mood (CBT) is a calssic self help book on managing anxiety and low mood.

Also maybe when y our DH is away again you can plan some nice stuff for yourself- books, films, see friends etc?

All worth a go.