Posted 6/16/2011 8:03 PM (GMT 0)
Hi NewfieGL,
I'm sorry to hear that your anxiety has returned in full force.
Your current predicament does not sound stupid at all! When I first started having panic attacks and constant anxiety, I could easily convince myself of a number of things (very unhealthy and unspeakable acts) that are not in my character to do.
One of the symptoms in many of us with anxiety disorders is the belief that we will lose our minds and act out in ways that could be detrimental to our well-being and to the well-being of others. However, you do not have to worry, it is simply a symptom of anxiety (which I'm sure you know); you are not going to suddenly go crazy and harm anyone.
You can teach yourself to not have these thoughts, which is what I did, by repeatedly telling yourself that it is just anxiety and that you have not suddenly developed another disorder that would make you act out in ways that could be dangerous to yourself or those around you. And of course, take nice deep relaxing breaths while you do this. Also, I would suggest you try to avoid watching or listening to coverage of the Casey Anthony trial. I had to stop watching the news for quite some time before I could feel safe that it wouldn't give me any ideas.
Best of luck,
DarkWolf