I had to quit my job and can't drive often because of my anxiety.

Mental health
1

This is the first time i've posted on here- I've suffered with feeling so nervous I can't eat, I feel physically sick, my body feels like it's in shock (much like when i had a car crash- although there was a reason for that feeling then) however for the last 4 years I wake up beyond uncomfortable- all i can focus on is my unsettled stomach and people have asked me if i'm ok as my eyes dart around on alert. I've had to quit my job, and its not the first time, I only drive if i have to (after a motorbike drove into the back of me and is now causing me a huge amount of stress with insurance- makes my anxiety unbareable now everytime I think of how much i have to do to sort out the claim etc.. I'm struggling so badly with a situation most people could just deal with-  the thought of using the phone makes me feel horrendous) 

I'm just wondering if there's any help from anywhere in terms of how to cope with daily activities as I havent been able to hold down a job for 4 years because i simply get too anxious to get out of bed- My boyfriend has to put up with me telling him im not going to work or sometimes leaving restaurants because i have a panic attack. Although hes so supportive I cant afford to not work but I just can't it feels literally like torture going into public sometimes- The most embarrassing part is how on earth do you tell a manager you can't work because you feel sick with anxiety-i'd just look pathetic as some people don't get it unless they have experience it. I don't want to take medication as I don't feel like they work and in most situation cause more harm than it's worth (this is going by multiple people who take various medications' who i've spoken to about it) 

I've seen a doctor, she suggested therapy or pills- personally i feel like i  need a medical note explaining what i have is a condition and i really realy cannot help it!- It affects every aspect of my life and its making me depressed most days im in bd and cry my heart out because i can see no help or end to this feeling- how am I supposed to pay my rent if i can't work? There must be something or someone that can give me a break- a small monthly wage whilst I get back on my feet again and it doesn't keep getting worse as  I worry at home alone everyday sad

Sorry about the length of this- Thank you so much for reading this x

2

You're not alone, remember that. I have extreme anxiety after being diagnosed with psychosis. My delusions are gone but I have extreme anxiety, namely about getting back home safely when I'm out or travelling, at home or abroad. I only feel safe when I'm with my partner. I'm seeing a psychologist because I don't want to go on medication either for anxiety. You could try cognitive behavioural therapy, and try calm breathing, or write down what makes you anxious and rate it. Don't forget though that you are still living and surviving. It makes me anxious to use the phone and sort things out too but yesterday I phoned the GP to make an appointment and felt better after I did it. The next step is leaving the flat to go to the appointment which I'm anxious about but I will need to do it. You can still solve problems and keep talking to people. See your doctor for talking therapy if you don't want to go on medication. 

3

I didn't want to take medacine either but at some point your anxiety is doing more harm than medicine!!! Life is to short to not do something about how you feel!!! I take citalopram and I am better!!!

4

Try reading this book call hope and help for your nerves by Claire weeks it cost like 5 dollars or less best of luck the book is amazing please give a try just know you are not alone