Help How do you guys deal with anxiety? Suggestions?

[ithappens]

I'm having some really bad anxiety today. Not sure how to describe it because I never can describe things in a way people can understand, but it's just like my fight or flight reflex is ready to go off and do something. I'd really rather not have a panic attack, but my mind won't let me live in peace today. Overall it's just been a hard week. I'm about to take some hydroxyzine I have prescribed, but the last couple of days it hasn't put much of a dent in the symptoms despite normally knocking me out cold or at least into a calmer state.

I'm almost considering looking into other meds that may help when this sort of thing happens (would prefer no benzos though). Do any of you take medication for anxiety? If so, and if you feel comfortable sharing, what helps you? And is there anything that can help other than medication that I can try as well?

 

[ClairyFairy]

Try breathing in as much as you can and expand your stomach whilst doing it. On the out breath breathe slowly through your mouth and nose at the same time and imagine your head and neck relaxing. Do the same thing imagining your chest relaxing, then your stomach, then your legs and finally your whole body. I find breathing in for 4 out for 7 is best for me but slowly breathing out through your mouth and nose is key.
I hope you feel better soon x

 

[signifying nothing]

Sometimes I find having a panic attack is actually the best thing for releasing built up tension and feelings, rather than trying to medicate it.

Saying that, I do take propranolol when I'm experiencing more general anxiety and need something to help calm me eg. to get to sleep.

 

[ashedout]

I'm not currently on any medication so I don't have any suggestions there. When I am feeling fight or flighty, sometimes it helps to actually flight by going for a walk or a drive (if you are able to). Crying can also help to release the built up tension. Or a distraction project like a puzzle that makes your hands do something as well as your mind but isn't too taxing.

My therapist sometimes takes me through a guided meditations and that can help. One of them is called "leaves on a stream" - it sounds so silly and sometimes it is, but it has brought me back from the state of panic before. You could find that, or other guided sessions on youtube for mindful breathing or mindful exercises. Do you have a favourite show, movie, book, etc? Sometimes going to a different world and back to an old favourite can also provide some comfort and ease.

Good luck and if you need someone to talk to, feel free to reach out :) <3

 

[NeverGoodEnuff]

I don't take meds either. Many use pot or alcohol, both make me sick but maybe it would work for you?

I sometimes take my dog for a walk or play fetch with him. Something physical if you can. I have actually vacuumed or done dishes or scrubbed the bathroom. Or mowed the lawn or shoveled snow. Wash the car. And it is a nice feeling to have those chores done. If I can't get myself to do anything like that, I will try reading or watching TV (NOT THE NEWS!).

If none of that works, in desperation, I will take benadryl 50 mg because it makes me sleepy. It doesn't always work, though.

I hope you find something that works for you. Anxiety like that is awful.

 

[Sherri]

Xanax helps me with anxiety, I only take 3 now ,3 times a day. Beware that you might become addicted. So take it in sos only. Worked for me, just my personal opinion, Im not a doctor.

 

[saltshaker]

You'll likely be anxious again and again. So try to realise you'll be okay even if you are panicking.

 

[Mentalmick]

I've never found anything effective against it, especially meds. Cutting used to help a bit but not any more.

 

[GoneGirl]

www.ilovepanicattacks.com

There is a 14 week course on that website.. it completely cured my anxiety & panic attacks. I used to have multiple panic attacks a day now I'm down to zero & have been for about 3 years

 

[notsure04]

Have you tried exercise? Im super anxious almost 24/7 and going for a walk helps, dancing helps... I just feel like getting as much tired as I can so then I can take a nap. Also when Im walking, doing exercise, I do it to take my mind off of things. Its easier for me not to think when Im doing something.

 

[Shero]

Listening to music in conjunction with stimming.