I'm on vacation-why the anxiety?!

My therapist was so happy that my anxiety levels had gotten so low. But unfortunately a few days after that session things changed. What puzzles me is I'm on vacation. I went away to visit relatives out of state. I always love visiting them and have fun. But this time although I told no one I was so anxious. I guess I just don't understand why I got so anxious? I'm trying not to beat myself up. But I get frustrated when I have good days and then it comes back. I feel like every time I take a step forward I wind up taking a step back again.

Hi Misty and welcome!

I am sorry to hear that your vacation is not all that you wanted it to be.:(

Change of routine and schedule...stress of travel and getting outside of one's comfort zone can all be anxiety triggers.

It is good that you were having some great days previously...now you just need to get through your vacation, and know that you can start to feel better again soon.

You can do this best by using coping skills such as breathing exercises, muscle relaxation and positive mantras.

We have video instructions to the first two in our Resources (main page, 1st post) They are really effective and can be done easily at any time.

For the positive mantra, you may want to repeat something like this:

"I am okay, this is only anxiety, and I can get through this and feel better again."

I wish you the best. Keep posting with us if you feel like it helps. Support is important, and you will find lots of it here!

Scaredy Cat

Hello, I get nervous about not having my "safety net" when I am on vacation.  My home is my safety net. I am safe in my home routines and habits. I know exactly what to expect at any given moment. I know that I don’t have to worry about any surprises popping up. I’m not good with the unexpected. And vacations are all about letting go of the daily grind and trying new things.

I still go on vacations but I have shortened them to 4-5 days as I can convince myself that I will be back home soon so I  enjoy the company I am with.

I need the privacy of having a place to take a nap if stressing so I choose to stay in hotels that way I have control of some things.

Big Breath and remember to only say yes to activities you really want to do.

Kindly,

Kitt