Anxiety – Don’t let fear stop you living

Don’t let fear take over. It’s easy to shy away from everything and everyone when your body is racing with fear. Everything scares you. People, places, events, situations. I find it is mostly the fear of the unknown that gets me. Of not being certain of what’s ahead of me. This makes me nervous. I like to be in control. Particularly when the anxiety is raging. But the truth is, life is one surprise after another. We can never truly know what awaits us. And no matter how much ruminating or planning you do, you cannot control what will be. It will be anyway.

Anyway, Isn’t that the spice of life? Not knowing? If we always knew everything that is ahead of us there would be nothing to look forward to or get excited about. If you understand that there is no certainty, and you are assured of your own strength, you can gain back some control.

So rather that letting your anxiety leave you feeling out of control, just try flowing. Nothing bad will happen. It never does. Chances are only good things will happen. If you shy away from social events or just simply going shopping, then you are missing out on life. And I totally get it. I have done this so many times over the years. But I am learning.

Before facing your fears, carry out the breathing technique and if necessary take someone that you trust with you. You can use your ‘Little bottle of Happiness’ too. The first few times will be the hardest, but as you learn that you are ok, your confidence will increase and you won’t be quite so afraid.

I now get anxious before any social gathering or event. I have come to learn that the anxiety and apprehension comes no matter what. So I ACCEPT it. Its part of me, and makes me who I am. It means I can write this blog.

I can honestly say that every time I am anxious about what COULD happen or what MIGHT happen, as the event pans out, none of those things happen and I usually end up having a wonderful time.

The worst thing you can do is avoid situations that give you fear. This only compounds the fear. Instead, be as brave as you can be and face it. I know you are brave. You live with anxiety every day, so you are pretty brave in my eyes. You may be happily surprised that you actually enjoy yourself. And this in turn will remind you how strong you are and that you CAN face the fears and be perfectly fine. You CAN do it! I believe in you! Say repeatedly to yourself:

• I am safe
• I am brave
• I am strong

Over time you will start to believe it!

Love and hugs K xxx

Important Note

Please remember that this advice is generally more helpful as you come to terms with your anxiety. I want to assure you, that at the very beginning, when anxiety consumes you, you may find it hard to do anything remotely like this. This is OK! You need time to adjust. You need time to come to terms with what is happening to you. Take the time to get medical assistance and educate yourself and as some sense of self returns, when you feel a little stronger, then please start to look at these techniques as help in your journey to recovery, K xxx