Stress Center Peer Support

Hi everyone. I'm new. I just started the program on Saturday, 11/1. I suffer from generalized anxiety and panic disorder (which I've controlled with meds) which has been under control until 10/25 when I had my first panic attack in years. Now, I spend every minute of my day with a knot in my stomach and worry in my head. I'm having major anticipatory anxiety...everything I face, I think, "Oh no, will that make me anxious," which makes me anxious in itself. I'm having trouble eating which is making me weak and I'm sure more anxious. Falling asleep hasn't been too difficult but as soon as I wake up (no matter what time it is) I can't go back to sleep and I just lie there feeling anxious until it's time to actually get up.

I know I must think positively and that it will pass but as you all know, when you're in the midst of anxiety, it's hard to remember that one day, it will be okay again. One day, my anxiety won't consume every minute and every thought. One day, I will feel happiness again instead of fear and hopelessness.

I've talked to my counselor, talked to my doctor, and am going to an accupuncturist. I'm hoping this will make the difference.

I am hoping, with every fiber of my being, that this program will give me the strength to make it through and the skills to keep my anxiety under control in the future.

I guess what I could really use is some encouragement. Someone tell me that this program worked or is working for them. Someone tell me it will pass...and I will be happy again.

Thank you in advance for your kindness and support. You know how much it means.

Hi missgsr -

I am in week 3 of the program and it has already made a significant difference in how I feel. I suffer from general anxiety and depression and have been taking Xanax for several years. Since I started the program three weeks ago, I have only had to take my medication once. I am still taking it one day at a time but I really think the program works.

I really have trouble sleeping and want you to know that when I listen to the relaxation tape, I usually fall asleep before the end of the tape.

Please continue with the program. I really think that it works. It is not very time consuming and is really great. I listen to my CDs in the car on my way to and from work every day.

Take care.

Pookie587

hi missgsr,
Yes, the program does help!!! I am just beginning week five today and have already seen some positive changes. I am not freaking out as much over physical symptoms nor letting them frighten me. I have more understanding about what is happening and these are just scary and negative thoughts which cause me to feel panicky. I am trying to unlearn bad habits which kept me fearful and anxious. I feel less depressed also so I am sticking with this program! Welcome to the forum and take care of yourself. You are amongst friends.

Hi missgsr,

YES IT WORKS!!!!

It's worked wonders for me with my anxiety, panic attacks, anger and depression. I have completed session 7 a couple of weeks ago and am now repeating sessions 1 with my husband who just started session 1 yesterday. I will be doing it with him as well as moving ahead on my own sessions. If you do the work and really spend the time repeating the sessions as often as you need to and keep up the journaling and workbooks you won't fail. For now be kind and loving to yourself and be patient. It's a great fix but not a quick fix. You could begin to feel better in just a few sessions but be sure to complete all sessions at a comfortable speed.

Best wishes for a great life changing journey.
You are not alone...ever!!

Thank you so much for your kind words, everyone. I know if I hang in there, it will work! You guys are awesome!

I would recommend this program. It has made me read the material and realize wow, thats how I feel and this is what I need to correct it. I have high expectations for myself. I know in my head this is impossible to accomplish all the time. I just hope this material will take the sense of it from my brain and take it to my heart.