can't sleep because of anxiety!

hi i suffer from anxiety disorder.i have been having panic attacks and mild anxiety on and off for four years since my brother passed away when i was 18 years old bt in the last 4 months i have started getting severe anxiety and it is taking over my life i did have a stressful job which i left 2 weeks ago as my anxiety was so bad and my managers where horrible and unsupportive.i hate going out now as im scared i wil get anxiety and embarase myself.i find being in my bedroom the only safe place and avoid seeing or speaking to family and friends.i refuse to take medication as im scared i will get addicted and am scared of the side effects.i have been waiting for my cbt councilling for 3 months but im not coping i can't sleep and get really bad anxiety at night as i get worked up about not being able to sleep.i sleep about 2-3 hours a night which is not healthy and then i feel tired all day and can't do anything.i used to sleep 8-9 hours a night before and i just want to be able to sleep like that again.any suggestions would be much appreciated.i really need help i dread night time and just want to sleep :(

[cj29]

I am really sorry that you are going through this right now.  You said you are waiting for counseling?  Are there any support groups that are available while you are waiting?  For me, counseling was the most important step I took in confronting and dealing with my anxiety.  I was also very skeptical about medication as well for months, but decided to give it a try and for me, it has helped tremendously.  In my opinion, one should not discount a method of treatment if it has the possibility to help you.  

Please feel free to ask as many questions as you like...you are going to get through this!

[Desires_1999]

Don't worry, as cj29 said medication does help. Also try and relax your mind. Do some yoga, meditation- that will help too. And the most important of all- IT IS YOU who will have to be in control, don't let Anxiety control you. I am sure you will win!!! Best wishes!

[anjum247]

thanks for the reply's.i haven't thought about support groups this might be a dumb question lol but how do i find out about it? do i have to ask my doctor.ok i will think about taking medication i just want to get better and live a normal life.