constant anxiety... could I also be lsing coping skills?

Question

Is it relatively normal to feel severe anxiety and loss of coping skills? I still cover all of my duties (going to work, paying bills, etc) but for the past year, I've had a crazy feeling of anxiousness in my stomach and a loss of the ability to cope with the way my life is. Granted, I've had the WORST year of my life but I don't feel like I'm ever gonna get rid of this feeling or ever be able to fully cope.

Answer 1

The best way I have encoutered about dealing with anxiety and inability to cope with the world is to remember how lucky you are. Not lucky to live in America (or not), or be white (or not), or even to be alive, but to be able to be anxious and unable to cope. Humans are an unprecidented species in that we are capable of recognizing the mechanism that led to our existence. Out of a seemingly purposeless, directionless, infinitely expanse universe, we not only are here, but we know it. This is not a religious or spiritual message, but a one grounded in reality. Also, the universe is over 10 billion years old and your worst year is very small. Finally, don't try to live. Just live and don't even think, let alone worry, about the things you do or your decisions. Not to be cleishe, but if you don't think about your decsions, you'll still make them and everything will be alright.

Answer 2

I have severe anxiety disorder. I have had it for most of my life. I can truly relate to all the things you said. At times it is a real struggle to get through normal day to day activities, working, buying groceries, etc. I am however doing better now than I have in years. Are you taking meds for this? If not please go to your doctor and get some. When you find the ones that are right for you it will change your life drastically for the better. I suffered for so many years before I realized this. As far as coping goes, it will get easier for you, I promise. You have to learn to control the anxiety instead of letting it control you. I know that sounds easier said than done, but it IS possible. I know a great website that is free and it offers an online support group and free CBT (cognitive behavorial therapy) This can really help you. The therapy is a slow process but it works. You will see and feel the results from it as time goes on. It teaches you how to cope and overcome the negative feelings you have. I also am a member of a live chat, online support group that has been a lifesaver to me. It is open 24/7 and everyone there has anxiety disorder so they really can understand and sympathize with you. It is comforting to me to be able to talk to others who are experiencing the same thing I am.
I will give you the web address for the first site I mentioned. It is: www.paniccenter.net If you would like the chat room address you can email me through my profile on here and I will be glad to share it with you as well. They always welcome new members but they ask us not to post the address publicly as to keep out spammers, etc. I wish you the best of luck! Hold your head high and do the best you can to go on with your life. You can beat this problem! I will be glad to chat with you anytime you feel like talking or have questions also. If you'd like my real email address just let me know. - Samantha