Introduction and question re therapy

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-07-2004
Introduction and question re therapy
3
Wed, 11-30-2005 - 2:54pm

Hi,

I'm new here. I am 28, work in marketing and have been dealing with anxiety from time to time the last 10 years. When I was a student, I had panic attacs where I couldn't breathe. After college it disappeared but I have been suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
This whole year IBS has been much worse, to the point that I was worrying about it all day, thinking I had something more serious and the doctor was wrong etc. I always find an excuse not to accept invitations because I fear I would have an IBS attack. I avoided going to a GI specialist because I was scared of the tests he would ask. Finally I was so miserable my parents made me go and doc said my bowel problems come from 'stress'.

Ah, stress...I always find a good excuse, like it's too much work or bad work atmosphere. But I know it's not just that. I worry all the time about the small things in life. I get a cold and I think of cancer. My parents are travelling and I think they're going to have an accident and maybe die. I go shopping and I get sick in the shops. I can't stand anything outside my daily routine, every change is hard to deal with. I haven't had a date in the whole past year because last time I met a guy, having to adjust to a new routine (going out, changing my week-end plans etc) was making me so nervous (and sick) that I broke up. I told myself it was because I wasn't in love with him but I know it would be the same with anybody.
I can't make any decision. I'm not happy where I live but I'm scared it would be worse somewhere else, and then where to go? I am ambitious for my career but I refuse all jobs where I would have to travel because I couldn't stand it, so I don't have many good opportunities left.

I have to be honest with myself : when it comes to this point it's not just stress anymore. I think I should see someone to get help. But I don't know what kind of therapy would work best for me, or how long it would take to feel better. Do you have suggestions? Besides, I'm wondering if there isn't a genetic factor in axiety. Mom used to be like this when she was younger, she says her dad and her grand-ma had panic attacks too. How do I break this circle?

Thanks for reading and for your insight,

Avatar for atober
iVillage Member
Registered: 05-20-2004
Wed, 11-30-2005 - 4:16pm

Sounds like you should definitely see a dr. You may benefit from meds and/or therapy. Excessive worry is one of the worst things about anxiety. Some people can talk through their feelings (therapy) and others need medication or both. There is really no way to say how long this will take or which therapy/meds will work for you. It is sometimes a trial and error basis. Sorry I couldn't be of more help but think you took the first step writing your post and hope you will continue by contacting a dr.

Good Luck and Hugs.

Alison

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-31-2003
Wed, 11-30-2005 - 7:39pm

I can totally relate. I just know now that when I travel, all I can eat is beef jerky. Otherwise, I get the running 'd' if ya know what I mean. Yuck.

I wish I had an answer for you about the anxiety and worry. I just work really hard on remembering what is realistic and what is not. Meds are sometimes a necesity (sure wish I could spell!). Counseling, well, to each his own. What works for one person may not work for another. If you are miserable, seek help until you get it!

Hugs!

Laura

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Wed, 11-30-2005 - 11:38pm

Welcome to our supportive community, Lullaby! Nice to see that you found us:) You have pretty much described alot of things that many of us have lived through with anxiety. I have IBS & it certainly curtails my plans when it flares up. It can make for lousy living. Fortunately, we have a very good board on iVillage. Here's the link: