New to the program need advice

[Fingers Crossed]

I'm new to the program (in my second week) and was wondering if anyone has taken time off of work to get themselves straightened out? My work I believe is the cause of my anxiety and depression. I used to love my job but in the last 3 years I've been under a great deal of stress and pressure and now I can hardly get out of bed to go to work. I feel anxious constantly and finding myself becoming more depressed. I have a small business that I'm barely keeping going due to my condition as well. I've spoke to management at work and they have agreed to give me a leave of absence to take care of myself. In the program they say not to avoid what makes us anxious, so I'm not sure if I should take a leave or not. With a full time job and my business I'm finding it hard to concentrate on the program, I feel this is my last chance to help myself. Does anyone have any advise for me?

Dan

[bunny rabbit]

Hi Fingers Crossed: I think it really comes down to money. If you can afford to take a leave of absence, it might be a great thing for you at this time. I've been under a huge amount of stress this summer with my father dying last month and my dearest closest friend, my chosen mom dying this month. My sister died in March. I can't imagine having worked all summer through this. I couldn't concentrate at all. I am up walking at 6:30a.m. to see the sunrise. I am spending my mornings journaling, reading, praying, dialoguing, playing the guitar and piano and just taking care of me and I'm getting through this. If I didn't look after myself and put myself first I'd be in the hospital. No one can tell you what to do. But I'm hoping my sharing will be a blessing to you. What would you say to your very best friend if they were in your shoes? Blessings from Bunny

[Fingers Crossed]

Thank you for your thoughts Bunny! Yes that dang money is always an issue isn't it.

[stelo63]

I just received the program yesterday and I am so ready for a change in my life. I listened to session I last night - and did the workbook -can I move onto session II - or do I have to wait a week?? - I am really struggling with sleep and anxiety these days - to include panic attacks. I listened to the relaxation CD also - what is the best way to pace yourself with this program so that I get the most out of it. I feel like I am rock bottom and need a lift very soon! I've been struggling with this for over 10 years, take medication (through a psychiatrist) and am now moving onto acupuncture which is starting to help. Any advice?

[John61]

My personal opinion is to keep working but you'll need to make that decision on your own. Maybe dial back a bit and do your best to concentrate on one thing at a time. For me work is hectic but it is a welcome distraction, when I'm home I have too much time to think and that gets me into trouble. Try to find positive things with your job, pretend your a new employee. Ever notice new employees always think it's great because they just started there. Good Luck and keep working the program!

[bunny rabbit]

Hi Stelo: I have found that spending a week on each lesson is important because it gives time for the material to sink in till it becomes second nature. I listen to the same lesson at least 3 or 4 times, I write out prayers for help on each problem area, I write out cards, affirmations, journal about the lesson, talk about it to another person etc. At the end of the week I am ready to move on to the next lesson usually. I also read other books I have related to the topic at hand. I figure it took me a long, long time to become the way I am today. It's going to take time to change my thinking and behaviour so I can feel differently. Hope this is helpful to you. Blessings from Bunny

[coralina]

For me the best ,is to leasing to the lessons as much as I net it if i want to goo back to specific one i will and I believed that is what help-me is a tool for you to be OK,with out medications.

[ladybug_101]

iam new to the program and so far its helping me iam amazed ! at first i thought it sure takes a long time to get from one session to another but each time i listen i find out more and more about myself an why i do what i do i have anxiety with traveling in a vehicle, train ,plane, boat , sometimes i get so anxious i make myself sick and it sux !!! its hard to explain to some people they just don't get it and i have said many times if i only new how to change this i wld because there is no one who is more miserable than me i hate it and iam ready to fight back !!!! i have not even driven a car for 15 yrs and iam only on session 2 and i am making progress i fill so much relief i got along ways to go but i didn't get there over night !!!!