New to the forum

[belawe]

Hello,

I'm sure this will all sound like a broken record.  I was diagnosed with GAD about 20 years ago.  At that time my main issue was sporadic panic attacks and unable to look people in the eye without blushing.  I pretty much got over the blushing issue, but have panic attacks almost everytime I drive (going on 4 years).  I've also had major palpitations that have shown 2 irregular EKGs (have had complete work ups from cardiologists with nothing found).  Over the past couple of years I have been completely foggy, unable to process simple things, focus is none existent...and have bouts of depression (usually last 3-5 days every 2-3 months).  I take xanax as needed and for flying (I hate flying!  The anxiety prior to a trip is exhausting...and I have to fly back east at least once a year to visit my inlaws).  Years ago I took Buspar, which seemed to work...but I really am trying to avoid all meds.  I've done acupuncture and that helps, just not completely.  Looking for any tips/suggestions on how to over come all of this before I completely lose it!  Oh, by the way...I'm a stay at home mom to four kids (17 yr old, 4 yr old twins, 3 yr old).  

Thanks!

[lilymoon]

You say depressed 3-5 days every few months,could it be related to your menstrual cycle,there are herbs that help with that.In general the book;feeling good and the book;mindfulness for depression I found helpful.

[mammo]

Hi.....no  this doesn't sound like a broken record.  Have you tried therapy?  This can be very beneficial in helping with our anxiety, especially your fear of flying, and driving.  With anxiety many of us have "triggers" that set un in panic mode and it sounds like your's is driving and the occassional flying. None of us ever want to take medication, but anxiety can be like any other medical condtion that requires daily medication to control the symptoms. For many of us, it had given us our lives back.  Some things we just can't handle on our own and there's no shame in that. You have to decide what is best for you and how you feel.  You also need to be careful with your children as they can sense your anxiety and/or depression, and I know you don't want this.  They normally go hand in hand. I guess what I'm trying to say, is medication can make everyone's life easier.  So try to keep an open mind with the meds, and for now I would see a therapist and go from there.  I hope this helps and I wish you all the best.