Anyone else fear insanity?

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-24-2004
Anyone else fear insanity?
5
Mon, 11-20-2006 - 10:26pm

I have been diagnosed with GAD (Generalized Aniexty Disorder) and have been doing group sessions and started talking with a therapist. I am told that people with GAD do often have a fear that they might go insane. This has been a fear of mine for a long time, although it comes and goes. I'm just wondering if anyone else has the same fear?

Thanks!

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-28-2004
Mon, 11-20-2006 - 10:49pm

Hi Kate,

I was diagnosed with GAD about two months ago. I can't say that specific fear of insanity is really strong for me. When I am in my most stressed out, burned out, anxiety overload moments, I actually can't concentrate, can't cope with the simplest decision, can't communicate (literally feel like I can't get the words out), then I sort of explode in angry frustration. That level of not being able to function scares the heck of out me (especially since it's a new development in my life)...but I guess I return to "normal" enough levels most of the time that I'm not that focused on the sanity issue. I really dread that feeling that my life in not in my control. I definitely have control issues which is a type of fear.

Hugs,
Dee

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Tue, 11-21-2006 - 1:51am

Hello & welcome to our caring community. That is great news that you are getting help through a support group & talking with a therapist.


Fears are a part of many anxiety disorders. Though going insane has not bothered me, I do fear dying when struck by a panic attack. I remind myself that noone has ever died from a panic attack. Here's a poll done a few months ago. You will see that others share your fear.

 

 


 



Avatar for peoplearenuts
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Tue, 11-21-2006 - 8:37am

I guess I have this fear because I had postpartum depression 6 years ago and recently was diagnosed with GAD and a panic disorder, and I have to tell you both times I felt like I was losing my mind. In both cases I reached out and sought help pretty early on.

You are seeking help and taking an active role in your recovery which is a very 'sane' thing to do, so I hope that can alleviate some of your fears. I know it can be very scary to feel like you're not in control of what's going on in your head.

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-21-2006
Tue, 11-21-2006 - 10:46am

Hey.. is this the kate I know? katemonster115 on Livejournal? this is Linda if so. :X

I used to fear insanity, now I just kinda roll with it. ;D

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-22-2003
Tue, 11-21-2006 - 7:54pm

Hi Kate, I do not have that fear, either, but like you, I have heard it is common.

Sheri Ann