Anxiety overload and anxiety attack could be ahead

[crisb_2002]

I am new here and just need someone to talk to. I feel so alone with my anxiety and am trying to calm down, but with no anxiety meds and feeling all alone it doesn't work too well. I feel like I let my husband down because I couldnt' go with him to pick up his daughter because of my anxiety and the fear that it could get worse on the road. We are currently having severe problems with mother and have filed court papers and haven't seen Angel my stepdaughter in almost a month because of those issues. I am afraid that we won't get angel again and that the mother will start something and that this will never end. God why can't I worry like a normal person? Those obsessive and irrational thoughts cloud my mind and take over my brain like I am on drugs. I think my husband sometimes thinks I use it as a crutch to not do things, but even writing that he might think that hurts so much. Well he just called and I have to go apparently our friend who was supposed to go with him got an accident call (firefighter) and now I need to go. Hoping I can get through the next few hours.

[sportybears]

Hanging in there. I know how hard it is when you are anxious & have to take a roadtrip.  That's pretty common for people like us & a big reason why I personally avoid going on vacation. I know its frustrating when your significant other doesnt really understand what your are going through & think you use it as an excuse.  The best thing you can do is try to be gentle with yourself.  You have alot on your plate right now.

Take some slow deep breaths in through your nose, hold it for a few seconds & then let it out slowly through your mouth.  Deep breathing can help calm you.  Try to drink some cold water.  Listen to some of your favorite music or try to distract yourself from your physical symptoms by reading a good book, doing a  crossword puzzle, or playing a game on your phone.  Those are some things you can do in the car.  You will be ok.

[markidee]

I know how family pressures can suffocate!

I know the best thing I can do for my family is take care of my mind. I know I have an illness and can love them best when I take care of myself. Obligated, anxious "loving" can actually cause more pain and dysfunction.

Sportybears is right re: natural management. For me, meds have been a way to free myself to work in lasting, permanent solutions. They are no longer a subject of fear or shame.

Finally--the car can be a terrible trigger for agoraphobia (especially long road trips!). In the past I remember driving through the Utah back country and really feeling like I was alone on Mars...horrified. I guess that's just to say: don't bite off more than you can chew...for yourself and your loved ones.

Keep posting. Lots of friends here!