Self Esteem

[Thessa]

I have been struggling with self esteem issues a very long time, it seems it has gotten worse over the years. I want to do so many things but I'm afraid I will get a panic attack. For example, a lot of times when I'm simply having a conversation with a co-worker or my bosses, or a friend I start to space out and think "I'm going to have a panic attack" and at that moment I start to fidget then I want to run or get out of the conversation fast. I also want to go back to school this semester but I feel I won't be able to handle it, going to talk to my advisor or sitting in class. I'm also considering getting a second job...but I'm scared to go to an interview. Is anyone else feeling this way? I am on session 3 and just started to replace negative with positive..but I can't help thinking negative things all the time, especially thinking I'm going to get a panic attack...help!

[chill1981]

I am feeling very scared to. I recently dropped out of school because of anxiety and a panic attack. I feel awful about making that decision because I was scared. Now I have the grueling process of trying to get back in plus I'm scared to death of it happening again and not being able to calm myself down. I have a really hard time when I make a mistake to just be nice to myself and realize that I am going to make mistakes.. there's no way to be perfect all the time. I am so scared to get back in but I realize now that in order to recover I have to put myself back in the situation. I hope this can provide some comfort that you're not the only one. I feel anxiety so often... I can get myself so worked up, it's ridiculous! It would be nice to know that others are having a hard time. I feel like I'm the only one sometimes.

[Thessa]

I do the same thing.. I can really get myself worked up into a panic and then feel like I'm totally spaced out. It's nice to know that I'm not the only one feeling this way, and you are right the only way to get over it is to conquer it again. I read your other post too, I can relate to so many things you posted. I push people away as well, and don't have any friends..I feel this anxiety disorder is really making me miss out on life. I hope you can get back into school to complete your nursing, it sounds like you are a strong person and can eventually overcome this. I feel I can as well, there is light at the end. I think if we just stick to the program and really practice what Lucinda says, it will work. We have to practice the positive thinking and remember if you have a negative thought, replace it with a positive one. I am here going through the same thing, so hopefully we can help eachother..Good Luck and God Bless

[razman]

DITTO! dealing with the same issues here too...many times while talking with people, i start "wondering" how long i can maintain my cool, and will start finishing sentences for them just to speed up the conversation! LOL....i always wonder later if they realized that i was nervous or distracted. i went through this program years ago, and then stashed it in the closet, but dug it out again about a week ago because some of my severe symptoms were returning. i can't help but feel like it is helpful to talk to others going through the same thing, at least it seems to help me...i know they can relate to what i'm dealing with, and it is a reminder to me that i am NOT JUST GOING CRAZY! just dealing with stress/anxiety like many others have also.