Scared almost all the time

Hello, I am new here, and I would just like to tell somebody about how I am feeling, because right now anyone that I tell thinks that I am stupid or crazy.

So I am scared, mostly all the time. Lately it has been over something very stupid, but makes me so scared that I cry.
So I was getting ready for bed, and I thought I saw a shadow. I was up the rest of the night because of that, not being able to move an inch of my body. A few nights later I woke up scared of the same thing, I could not move and I just lied there crying for two hours straight. I'm afraid I will get possessed or something. I'm fine in the daytime but at night I just get horrible anxiety over something so stupid. It has been other problems in the past like murderers and other things that could kill me. I get very little sleep some nights because of these fears, and I don't know what to do about it. When should I seek help? I am also starting to develop OCD because I am so scared. Like I will put something down, and I feel like if I don't reposition that item then I will die. Its just getting out of hand. I'm scared right now.

boalola
Hello and welcome to HealingWell. I have had the same fear of hearing noises, so I turn on all the lights and make a lot of noise - nobody was there. One time I even called the police and they came and checked the perimeter of the house. All was well. I now have a dog, so I do not worry as he is a great comfort when I am home alone or even at night when I am sleeping ! He is a big boy weighing in at 90 lbs and he is a doberman, but so lovable.

With many of your symptoms starting to feel OCD to you I agree you should seek out your physician as therapy may be a great idea for you. The two main treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder are:

Psychotherapy
Medications
Which option is best for you depends on your personal situation and preferences. Often, treatment is most effective with a combination of medications and psychotherapy.

A type of therapy called cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be the most effective form of therapy for OCD. Cognitive behavioral therapy involves retraining your thought patterns and routines so that compulsive behaviors are no longer necessary.

Stay strong and focused on your goals. Recovery from OCD is an ongoing process. Stay motivated by keeping your recovery goals in mind. Remind yourself that you're responsible for managing your illness and working toward your goals.

Remember you have anxiety, anxiety does not have you. You have joined a great support group so keep on talking with us.

Gentle Hugs,

Kitt