I am in no way a medical professional, my experience and tips are not to be followed without consulting your doctor first.
We all experience some kind of anxiety, on some level. Some more often than others. Daily, weekly, hourly or through big life changes. Some experience anxiety that seem like minor blips on the radar, butterflies in their stomachs and nervous feelings for a brief moment. Others experience anxiety on a daily level, one that brings out physical symptoms or constant state of anxiousness.
I had my first real panic attack nearly 6 years ago. We had just moved into our home in Hudson, and were just coming off of a six-month long journey with our oldest son being diagnosed (and very sick) with Ulcerative Colitis. We too, had our youngest son at the time who was in and our of hospitals left and right for chronic asthma issues. Pile that high with a father who had a massive heart attack that left him on life support, and a sweet momma who had not one but two cancer diagnosis’ – to say the least, there was a lot of things to be fearful of in that time.
My anxiety rose like a roller coaster – unable to grasp fully that my anxiety was causing all of my stomach issues, shakiness and heavy chest. Convinced something more was wrong with me, doctors tested everything under the sun. Not ONE doctor thought perhaps it was anxiety that was manifesting in other ways. After all, I am a very bubbly optimistic girl, so that can be a mask for what anxiousness existed underneath. It was very early one morning getting the kids ready for school when my heart felt like a drum beating out of my chest. I swore I couldn’t breathe. I walked out of the laundry room and quickly found myself laying the family room floor, gasping for air. Before I knew it my hands, arms and legs were completely tingly and numb, I couldn’t feel anything and each breathe felt like it was my last. Dan called 911… It was horrifying.
The paramedics walked in and immediately accessed me and said “Miss, are you on any anxiety medication?” The knew immediately that I was suffering from a panic attack. My first (and last) massive one ever, and I was so embarrassed to mumble “No.” in return. For an entire year I did not want to start any type of anxiety medication. I associated it with being weak, and the term “mentally ill” just scared the shit out of me. But it was in that moment that I realized that the help I needed, the help I avoided all along was to accept the fact that I needed to start anxiety medication.
Since starting, and stopping my anxiety medication for my pregnancy with Max, and restarting – I recognized my need for the medication and how it helped me in a multitude of ways. Medication is not for everyone, but I highly suggest if you are suffering from anxiety or depression to seek help. Do not wait – it will not fix itself. Over the years I have developed multiple coping mechanisms. I have learned triggers, and am able to harness my anxiety and either avoid or approach a situation differently to help dissolve those anxious feelings.
Fast forward to 6 years later, I wish I could have pull myself aside and tell a few things.
- Seeking help for anxiety is one of the bravest and smartest things you will ever do for yourself.
- Taking mediation to help out your serotonin levels is NOT abnormal, nor something to be embarrassed about. In fact, it’s needed – and it’s okay.
- Your anxiety will NEVER conquer you. Mindset is everything. And when those anxiety attacks happen, and anxious thoughts arise, YOU can learn how to walk yourself out of that head space. It takes time.
Right now, in this moment – what we are experiencing as a nation is beyond uncharted. Mental health is so important during this crisis. We have to remind ourselves to take our fear and turn it into faith. When we feel anxious and overwhelmed to seek help – whether that looks like talking to someone you love, removing yourself for alone time, working out, deep breathing etc. Re-set, and know you will be OKAY. YOU will get through this and YOU have the power to change your mindset. Even if you find yourself doing it multiple times okay, that is OKAY. We are all scared during these uncertain times and the lack of socializing and increasing groundhogs-day-like days can be exhausting.
SEEK JOY – take time for yourself and keep reminding yourself that this WILL PASS. Here is one of my favorite affirmations to speak during the day, right before I do deep breathing and stretching…
Sending my love, well wishes, and patience to you all. As we will get through this together, stronger than ever.
xoxo, abby