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QUESTION: I went and visited the group...it said on there that you dealt with anxiety disorder. Can I talk to you about it? I deal with anxiety so bad. Almost to the point I have a hard time driving. I'm just wondering how you dealt with it and got through it? Thanks! ANSWER: I dealt with it one moment at a time. For many years I just lived through it, utterly convinced that there was no alternative. Looking back, I’m not even sure I recognized that I was struggling with extreme anxiety – I just thought it was the way I had been wired! So I truly empathize with what you are facing now. I have been helped so much by reading Lucinda Bassett’s wonderful book, From Panic to Power. Her writings helped me to take my life back from anxiety’s grips. She has a tape series and other books on the subject as well that I highly recommend. I also found inspiration and practical ideas from studying Charles Linden’s anxiety management method. It is called The Linden Method. Additionally, support groups are always helpful. I always say that Relationships Replace Eating Disorders. This is also true for many other co-occurring issues, such as panic and anxiety disorder. Watch the movie What About Bob? to see firsthand the power of relating to others as a tool to overcoming the knee-jerk reaction to get anxious about anything, nothing or everything. The Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA) has a state-specific listing of support groups and therapists, and also suggestions for starting a group. I think it is wonderful that you have visited the group that I moderate, and I do encourage you to become a regular part of our community. While our primary focus is eating disorders, many members have also struggled with anxiety. There are probably other online communities that focus more specifically on anxiety as well that you could join while you are in search of local support. Above all, don’t give up. Once you read Lucinda’s story, you will realize that you, too, have the power to take control of your life back from anxiety. Hang in there! Warmly, Shannon Do you have a related question you would like to submit for future editions of Good News? Would you like to send a message of encouragement and support to the person who asked this question? (NOTE: all messages of support will be received and published anonymously in future editions of Good News) If you would like to submit a question or send a message of support please send it to Shannon c/o Good News HERE |