Back in the US and so anxious

Hi,

I am finally back in the US. I went to see my parents. My mom had a esophagus dilatation and during the supposed to be simple procedure her esophagus was perforated. She was in ICU for over a week and 2 more weeks at the hospital. I stayed 2 more weeks there to help out. Hopefully, she will be okay but the recovery has been slow and challenging.

I also saw my dad for the 1st time since he was moved to a geriatric home. His dementia is getting worse. He still recognizes us but he is so distracted and gone most of the time that it is really sad.

I went to see a GI doctor while I was there and had a endoscopy done. Basically my esophagus is burnt with stomach acids and this gives me chest pain.

While I was there I took Klonopin 0.5 daily and was able to manage. I was able to buy it there in drops which my psychiatrist says it is easier to manage. Now, I am trying not to take it and find better ways to deal.

It is hard to cope with anxiety when it seems that all hits you at once. I am so exhausted from the trip from all the accumulated anxiety that I even got a rash...

Thanks for listening

Hi AK,

Wow, what a difficult trip that was from the beginning! It was hard for you to even go due to your anticipatory anxiety...and then the experience itself with the challenge of your parent's health issues...I am so sorry that was so difficult.

I will be keeping you and your parents in my thoughts and prayers for sure...

...and keep doing the fantastic job you are of managing your anxiety and symptoms. It may take some time for things to slowly come down from the heightened state they were in...but it will get better now that you are home.

Keep us updated so we can keep you encouraged!

(((Hugs)))

S.C.