Anxious Thoughts & How to Deal

[CrayZeeRaids]

Depression is something I've lived with for over 8 years but anxiety has never really been a major impactor on my mental health. Recently though I have been feeling anxious to the point of shortness of breath, clenching up, and flashbacks. On days that I don't have much going on it seems like these episodes occur every 10-15 minutes as different thoughts enter my head. On days that I work or spend time with other people they only happen 3-4 times a day. I try to talk myself through them, breathing, or distracting myself but it's a bit unnerving to have them happen so frequently when I never experienced them before. I don't know if there are specific ways to help deal with sudden and intense anxious episodes but any insight would be helpful.

[Dee]

Sounds like you are doing everything right.  The best thing I can advise is to use your five senses.  This really works, it took me time to believe it and try it.  I like essential oils.  I have them with a diffuser and I also have roll on lavender for emergencies.  A mint will help with taste.  I listen to imagery as well. 

When I have overwhelming anxiety, first I breathe, then essential oils, then hold a fuzzy blanket.  It's okay to have these moments, just coping with them in a healthy way is key.  I can't control it, but I can control what I do.  I'm doing a lot better than I use to when I would drink or hurt myself.

[alchemist]

Until I started connecting with my traumatized younger self I had the same. Once I began talking to my Inner Child and Nurturing myself, I understood why I was panicking and could then Breathe and Love myself through them.  That's what I am able to impart.<3