Anxiety Support Group
Anxiety is a physical condition marked by intense and persistent feelings of distress, fear, angst or dread. General anxiety caused by routine day-to-day stresses usually passes quickly and is experienced by almost everyone at one time or another. However, such feelings that linger over time and are very difficult to cope with, and which lack a clear cause, may indicate...
being a man its hard to admit even to a doctor that i need help ive always been taught that its weak but maybe its tough to admit you need help thats courage
Like in one of NZ's ex All Blacks said in his depression book "Hope" he said his mates would say "harden up", how does a 6ft'3 225lb rugby union (no pads etc like NFL) get any Harder?
Let it go mate. Only soft guys in this modern era stick to this, men have to be tough or strong rubbish.
My biggest advise, get a clinical psychologist diagnosis, you may have more than straight depression.
Dont surround yourself with emotionally weak guys that expect that rubbish. Im 6ft'5 and well built and I never have a problem talking to my mates, because they are similar minded.
If it is just straight depression, then Id suggest talk therapy over drugs, drugs via independent studies dont have a strong case outside clinical depression etc, in saying this consult with your doctor, psychiatrist etc. My opinion is that if its just talk therapy for depression, then whats most important is YOU feel comfortable with the Therapist, whether they an affordable counsellor or a costly clinical psych (which is costly). Ive had Therapists who have been in the industry for 30 years be much better for some issues than psychologists. As I said though, only a clinical psychologist can give you, an actual diagnosis.
Be careful with things like Xanax, its is great for calming Panic Attacks, but you should learn how to deal with 90% of panic attacks (which is the only time I personally take it and see the need for benzos) with your own mind, if you have anxiety and Panic Attacks as well as depression, look for a therapist versed in Mindfulness Acceptance style therapy. You have to learn how to calm your body with your mind. No its not easy. But benzos are extremely dangerous if taken daily and HIGHLY addictive, Im currently being weaned off Valium to avoid potentially fatal seizures etc.
Anyway none of the above is medical advice, you must speak to your GP first. Just my personal experience. I suffer from constant depression all my life and have Complex PTSD due to numerous life threatening violent situations as a child.
Oh lastly, you could try eating VERY healthy, whole foods, cut out sugar and starchy carbs like bread which cause fluctuations in blood sugar which definitely impacts mood, especially anxiety. If you have anxiety avoid all stimulants ie coffee. Most importantly get exercise and regularly (ie every day). Even just a 30 minute stroll. It boosts feel good hormones/chemicals like endorphines (the bodies natural morphine, literally) and feel good chemicals like dopamine. Just a tip, not medical advice again, your GP doctor will know all this basic stuff.