I'm a newbie as well. I just started session two this week. I was a little overwhelmed at the program at first, but I think I've gotten myself into a nice little rhythm.
I have a generalized anxiety that's with me 24/7 and which can spike into panic episodes. Not the textbook ones that I've had in the past, but mine are more drawn out and don't have the intensity of the shorter ones. I have some depression too because of not feeling well a lot of the time. I find the self talk really helpful.
Short story, the day before yesterday, I had to walk to the store for a couple of things. Now this store is about a 10-15 minute round trip if you're just picking up a few things. I was anxious about going over there by myself, but I had a pep talk with myself, walked over there, walked through the store without the people, crowds, bright lights, anything small get to me. Even when someone cut me off with their cart! I just kept talking to myself. I successfully checked my groceries out and walked back to my office. As I was walking out of the store I got this smile on my face, tears in my eyes and I kept saying to myself, I did it! It felt really, really good.
