Anyone out there have a anxiety disorder? ?

Question

I have had anxiety since i was a child and the older i get the more I HATE IT!! it hinders almost everything that I do. My husband plays in a band and were always at clubs bars watching him play, and although I it's so much fun i hate the anxiety I feel prior to being in a social situation. Also I feel like that during the holidays, they are hard for me to enjoy because I hate being around just a ton of people it's not a fun time for me. Can someone relate? any suggestions?

Answer 1

I think everyoen in the world as an axiety disorder at times. I think its the same as being nervous just a medically given name is all. I used to have severe anxiety and would take 6mg - 8mg xanax/ativan daily to calm it but once i rationalized things it got rid of it. Just think about it, everyone else gets nervous and self conscious aroudn people. in big get togethers, they are all there to have fun and celebrate the holidays, not to procrastinate against eachother. Just try to think of all the other peoople who have this feeeling like you and it will get better, trust me. no meds for me and im living a wonderfull life :)

Answer 2

I have a generalized anxiety disorder with OCD - it is treated with anti-anxiety drugs and occasional appointments with a psychiatist.  This has really helped me.  You should ask your family doctor to refer you to a psychiatrist so that if you do have an anxiety disorder, you can get diagnosed and then get treatment :)

Answer 3

I have GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder), in other words, I'm a worry wart.  I'm anxious even when I don't realize it, and take Klonopin for panic attacks (usually only happens when I'm anticipating something I perceive as "horrible").  

That translates to the social arena as well.  I'm painfully shy (maybe SAD involved, too), and being in a big crowd is not fun for me either.  I think the hardest part is engaging people because I'm so worried about what they think.  

I try to shift the conversation to what they're doing, what projects they're working on, how their kid's are doing, because people like to talk about themselves, and it's a good way to follow up later on if you can't think of what to say.  If they ask about you, you can keep it brief if you still feel anxious, or ask their advice on something, people like giving advice in general, especially when it's solicited.

Once I get a good conversation going, I don't feel so bad.  And it depends on how well I know them too.  Man, I can relate to that!

Are you getting any professional help?  Medications?  Always helpful.  I was on Effexor for a while, but it's not working as well, but I've heard good things about Lexapro and Xanax.

Answer 4

I agree with Gabe.

Remember, anxiety = fear and fear = distorted perception of reality.

Once you can get everything back in perspective, it's great. =)