Also i struggle with a lot of thinking .bad thinking, what if's negativity , pop ups of things that happen to me or things that can possibly happen . any tips on how to calm the mind or thinking more positive ?

thank you

I grew up with a very negative mother. Trying to learn positive attitude. It's very hard to change. But you have to keep at it one day at a time. I tell myself-
My thoughts are not reality. Reword my thought in a more positive and realistic way. Practice mindfulness to try to lessen my obsessing about the past and worrying about the future.

just wanted to pop in and say welcome xxx

Hello Monis,

Getting reassurance about my symptoms from professionals worked wonders for me. It gives you the peace of mind that you're healthy at least. Speaking here and reading about other people who have similar symptoms to me also goes a long way. It helps me realise I'm not alone and other people are going through this as well. Psychologically it convinces you that your symptoms are not as life threatening as they seem.

Eating healthy and exercise (to whatever extent you can) is also recommended. If you make healthy choices, anxiety has a much tougher time of convincing you otherwise.

Talk about your challenges in safe places like this one, meditate, spend time in nature.

Those are my suggestions. I hope they help.

Something simple that has been helping me a little:

Instead of giving power to your thoughts, try saying, “ok, I’m just having a thought about this, but it’s only a thought.”

Hello Monica. Welcome to DS. Sorry for what brings you here, but glad you are here.

I don't suppose you could make a mask free call out here to my farm. Nobody here has had a decent haircut since the mask and social distancing laws went into effect. We are looking downright primal out here. The 2020 Look?

Just wishing. . . Getting back on topic. . .

Gentle empathy on the anxiety symptoms. In the absence of quick and easy fixes, getting my anxieties of the day into words and sharing those words in a safe supportive environment helps me allot. This very forum is one of the places I come to do exactly that. Hope it helps you, too.

Welcome aboard. Hope you find stabilizing companionship here.

I am new to the group also and it comforts me to know that I am not the only one struggling with anxiety and panic attacks. I can be great for many months and when I get one panic attack, it stays in my mind for many days, creating maybe other attacks or simple anxiety.

I think the worst part is when your heart just wants to jump out of your chest.

I did go to counseling which helped me a lot and to this day I remember his words..."start making a list of what you need to buy at the supermarket"...even if I wasn't really going. This would help get my mind of whatever the panic attack was about, which many times, it's about nothing but it does creep up when less expected.

I also carry a juice or fruit in my purse. It does help!

Hi Monis. When we have endured trauma in previous parts of our lives, our body tries to push thru so we can continue to function, work, and take care of our families.

However, sometimes that trauma comes calling in the future and it wants you to address it. Sometimes you have no control when that happens.

I highly suggest you work with a therapist in order to help you process that trauma. If you can't b/c of money, pandemic, or time right now, that's also understandable. You can start journaling. It will give your emotions and thoughts a place to go, rather than constantly ruminate.

You can read only about healing certain childhood wounds. There are many great self help articles out that that can give you some direction as to what is bothering you, and what can you do about it now.

Find healthy ways to release energy. Paint, create, dance, exercise, meditation.

Learn to forgive yourself and have compassion for yourself and what you went thru. Know that you did not deserve it, and that you deserve love, kindness, and respect.

Sending you light and love!