In a way.. it does, it is a long haul to feel something better, its a fight that doesnt end (seems like) but a part of me likes to believe there is an end, even though it doesnt feel like it at the moment. it is also difficult for me to reach out to others, thats why there DS! and your not alone here :)

I've just recently been diagnosed with MDD, GAD and OCD. On top of that I suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis and Fibromyalgia. I have some other chronic ailments as well. It's like a vicious cycle. The pain causes anxiety, anxiety causes OCD, OCD causes depression, depression causes pains.

Why do you allow it to do so?

Thanks for posting. Have you tried things like meditation/mindfulness or long walks in nature?

Its hard to control the thoughts and obsessive behaviors.

I actually took a vacation last summer to VA and spent time alone hiking, horseback riding, river rafting and it was amazing. My mind was somewhat at ease for a portion of the vacation. I do like to take time to myself and try to relax but it's difficult.

I find the humor is the most valuable tool for me. I make the anxiety absurd which helps diffuse the power of it. If I have a thought of "oh, I'm going to die." Then I can re-reframe it to "I'll be dead within five minutes." I also use a lot of "what's the worst that can happen." That often puts things in perspective. Example: "I'm going to be late for my doctor's appointment.' I can call ahead, I can ask when I arrive if he/she can still see me but for a shorter length of time. I can ask to be rescheduled and put on a list for cancellations, etc.

Have you looked into getting a service dog or ESA?

Ironically I have a dog, but not a service dog, and have often wondered how I'd manage without her. She helps me relax.

I'm sorry that anxiety is controlling your life. You know, sometimes I feel the same way! Do you ever try watching a comedy, or your fave show? You could also try distracting yourself by calling someone you're close to. Coloring sometimes helps me to relax. Getting an adult coloring book might help!

I actually have tried all sorts of things. I've purchased the adult coloring books, I've started drawing, I purchased a ukulele and started teaching myself to play, I do word searches, and watch plenty of tv. The thing is, I have Rheumatoid Arthritis and I can't use my hands too much or they'll start hurting terribly. However, that doesn't stop my from trying.

I do realize that I need to keep myself very busy, or my thoughts tend to get the best of me.