Stress Center Peer Support

Hey guys, I keep telling myself I'll be okay, and don't need help, but I'm not sure anymore. I've had two anxiety attacks before (over the last 2 years), and my third one was last Sunday. I started teaching middle school, and found that I love it and hate it. But after four weeks, while I was planning the week's lessons, I just completely broke down and started crying. My mind just turned off and I could not do anything. The principal gave me this week off to relax, but I don't feel any better. All week I've awoken to my tears and stressed about what to do next. I've lost 10 pounds (I'm 6'3 and weigh 145) because although my stomach feels hungry, I just can't eat.

After leaving my teaching job, I am constantly stressed about working in a job 40 hours a day and hating it.

I haven't suffered from anxiety before, with the exception of the two prior times, but they passed in a week or too. So, I guess I'm asking if you think this is a phase and will pass too, or if you think that it may become a larger, lasting problem.

Thanks in advance for your replies!

I am certainly no expert, but my reasoning is that if you perceive that there is a problem, then there is. I guess I don't believe that it is just a phase that you are going through. I do know that working this program can only help. I have gotten information here that I wish I had gotten years ago, but the truth is, years ago I would not have been able to hear it. I think that we all come to a time in our lives when we are open to receiving the help and information that we need. I don't know what your situation is, but be good to yourself, be kind and gentle to yourself, and look at this as an adventure....an exploratory period to take some time to find out about you. Something is not working in your life, and your body and mind are telling you so. Too often, in the past, I didn't listen to myself and what I was trying to tell myself. I hope that you take the time for yourself, and I wish you the best.

Hello Elmastello,

I agree with everything <span class="ev_code_PURPLE">estherbunny</span> said and it was WELL SAID. <span class="ev_code_PURPLE">Great reply</span>

it really sounds to me and I also am no expert other than knowing how I myself felt everyday for too many years and how after completing 4 sessions feel today. I have a long way to go with the program BUT have felt, noticed, and others have too how much I have changed in a short time frame. I know I would still be feeling rotten and making those around me feel rotten also 10 days or so ago.

I have worked very hard, took each session slowly, listened at least 3 times to each one, did my homework, journaled, did relaxation cd every time I felt overwhelmed and I'm going to be all I ever dreamed of being down the road. I truly believe the ones who conquer their depression, anxiety, and stress are the ones who don't quit, work hard, want to feel better and live life the way it's meant to be lived...with love, joy, peace, compassion, appreciation of all that is beautifull and good.

Listen to your little person...if we do we generally are led down the right path.

Today can be the first day of the rest of a wonderfull life if you BELIEVE & DO IT.

Wishing you well.

Deborah

Do you have the program? It is very helpful.
Sounds like you have situational stress and anxiety. You are getting into a new job, and that can be exciting and scarey. Don't run from it. Flow with it. Don't freak yourself out. Get back in there. You may cry, or have some stomach problems. That's life. You know this is temporary, until you adjust to the new schedule.
You can do this.
Rent Dane Cook's Vicious Circle. Order the program, if you haven't already.
I do think this will pass, but it can't pass if your locked up at home. You need to get back in class. Take a deep breath and go for it.