Having a really bad year... anxiety has come back

So, it's been a while since I have been here because I had been doing so well with my anxiety until recently. With meditation and cbd, I had gotten everything under control. Then, in March, my mom was diagnosed with a brain tumor. They removed it, but also found she has lung cancer and a small spot on her kidney. She wound up in ICU with the first round of chemo. She's back at her home now and doing a bit better, but I'm her only caregiver. I, somehow, found a way to deal with the stress from all of that... then recently, a family friend died suddenly who was only 2 years younger than me (37). It was something that likely could have been fixed if he'd have just taken the time to go to the doctor. Now, another family friend(older than me, but still pretty young) was found in his home having had a massive stroke and is in a coma. My anxiety and health anxiety is going crazy. I literally spent last evening laying in bed, meditating & using progressive muscle relaxation techniques until I fell asleep because I'm feeling so many pains and/or tingling in different parts of my body that I almost feel like I can't function normally. Ex.) Left hand tingling(I do have a pinched nerve in my shoulder), pain in (what feels like) my bones, muscle tension in my neck and shoulders. My sinuses have been giving me headaches & dizziness. My ears have been hurting. I'm to the point that I am so stressed that I don't know if the symptoms are real or the result of my anxiety. The other day I had a pressure feeling above my kneecap (had done a lot of walking) and went into a full panic attack because of it. This has got to get better.

CG,

Caring for a sick loved one is naturally going to be a stressor and trigger ones anxiety! I am sorry to hear your mom is going through this...and wish her much recovery and wellness!

Have you considered going on a medication to help you during this time? Situational anxiety can be treated well temporarily with an Rx.

Something to think about...especially since you have worked hard with your coping skills, but could still feel better with more help.

(((Hugs)))...and keep posting for support!

S.C.

Oh, I see...yeah a lot of people can't tolerate certain A/D's. There is a test called Genesight which could help you narrow down your most compatible med...

...or if you want to avoid A/D's all together...there are benzos and Hydroxyzine (benzo alternative that is actually an antihistamine used off label for anxiety) that you could take when you are feeling especially challenged and your coping skills are giving you full coverage.

Just some thoughts. Again...post as needed! We will be here to listen.

S.C.

I’m so sorry you’re going through this but it is totally understandable with everything you have gone through I am going through the same thing.. I hope you find the relief you need. Take care of yourself when you can. I know caring for our parents when their elderly is very tough.try to keep up with your meditation and muscle relaxation I’m sure you will get through this. we are all here for you

Keep in mind that you have overcome this in the past. You probably didn't think you ever would, but you did. Recall the victories per se, it will give you some confidence in being able to get through this again. I employed this technique and it helped ease things knowing I have the skills to do it again. My therapist taught me this and I use it to this day even though I am 75% better thank 6 months ago.