anxiety/depression due to past

I'm 19 (female) My anxiety is affecting my life, to the point where I've fell into depression. I recently had to let go of my toxic dysfunctional family, that ruined every part of my self esteem, However, my main problem I'm having is anxiety and obsessive thinking. I literally think about the past and future so much that I can never focus on anything I'm doing at the moment. I overthink the "what ifs". This may sound kind of kid-like and childish so please excuse me for it. But I always feel like people don't like me, I always feel like people are gossiping about and will soon spread rumors about me, and everyone will be against me. I feel as if everyone thinks I'm slow or crazy but just not telling me. I worry and care so much of what people think of me, and I know its quite natural to care about what others think of you and sometimes we should care, but in my case, I dwell on it and overanalyze it over and over until I find another worry to subsitute it with. I am always nervous probably 89.9 % of the time. I have a little bit of social anxiety$

I can't stop thinking about "what ifs, and why's? Its hard to think about happy things because All I think about is negative things from the past or the "what ifs" in the future. I always feel people are out to get me... Maybe because my family would gang up on me whenever they would attack with their dysfunctional acts.

I'm sorry for the long passage, but I just wanted those who can help or who have experienced this to get a good understanding, and give me some advice on how to overcome this, without medicine, I'm scared to be put on medicine, terrified of the side effects, but get medication if Its mandatory. Is there a way to shake this? Have anyone ever experienced or is experiencing this?

Post Edited By Moderator (Scaredy Cat) : 3/29/2013 10:03:21 AM (GMT-6)

Hi JM and welcome!

I am sorry to hear of the anxiety that you are feeling presently.

The past and how we were brought up certainly does affect the people we are now! Both good and bad experiences go into shaping the way that we perceive and react to our present cirucumstances...absolutely!!

The good news is that there is hope. Many people have endured tough upbringings and have gone on to lead vitorious lives through the help of therapy.

Have you ever considered this step? I went through what is known as CBT (coginitive behavioral therapy) and it changed my life.:)

Basically it can teach you that though situations in your life may not change...your reaction to them can! You may not be able to change other's beviours, but you have complete control over your own thoughts and responses to negative situations.

This is an incredibly empowering and freeing step!

If possible, I would recommend looking into it. I can also make some good book recommendations at your request.:)

We also have a great Resource Guide here (main page, 1st post) that has an abundance of great self-help ideas....check it out as well.

Keep posting here with us if you find it helpful. We understand your feelings, and are here to support anytime!

Scaredy Cat