Am Getting More Anxious As Time Goes On

[Pennyroyal]

I'm trying to be positive about my PTSD but I'm feeling I'm actually getting more anxious as times go by.

A violent incident in May was the start of things for me and although I've been seeing a counsellor it's not really helping that much. I am sleeping better and also my concentration is better but apart from that I am getting more anxious at various things which never bothered me before.

It's almost like I'm developing claustrophobia which I never had before. I need to be in places where I know that I can get out. I've just called to see a friend and we stood in her kitchen and her husband stood talking but in the doorway to outside and I really felt uncomfortable as though I couldn't get out if I needed to. I am the same in toilets, some buildings and have also just had to ring a coach firm (who I've booked to go to a show with) and check what seats we've been allocated as I don't want to sit near the back. I was not like this prior to May.

I do all the deep breathing etc and think positive thoughts but it comes over me suddenly.

 

[Pennyroyal]

Just checking in but no replies yet. Fairly new and wondering if I'm doing something wrong?

 

[lisamarie]

I know what you mean. Sometimes I feel the need to have an "escape route" too. Even when my boyfriend and I are cuddling, if I feel too confined, I have to pull away. Its rough.

 

[Gamereign555]

Its going to take some time and exposure exercises to get used to everything again. Anxiety can build and build over days and panic can seem to last forever also. Once you get used to things again the stresses from everyday life will lessen enough to where you can get a handle on your anxiety, good sleep is a key in this as well as exposure... You can take some medication to break the cycle of panic if you have to though. Some therapy is a good idea to talk things out and get some mental tools and techniques.

 

[DHC]

I've had different amounts of claustrophobia at different times in my life. Protect your comfort zone, plan ahead, whatever you need to do. Take care.

DHC

 

[Pennyroyal]

Thanks for your replies. Have been having counselling. I don't really want to take more medication. Thanks again,

 

[BloomInWinter]

(((((Pennyroyal)))))

It did feel like it was getting worse and worse, but what was happening for me...still...is that I'm more aware of it, not dissociating or throwing up defenses against the feelings....and am looking for the triggers.

It may be that is was happening before, but you were reacting differently.

Sounds like normal responses...not that it feels good, I know...

Now that I know what my anxiety attacks feel like, I am identifying more and more in my past that I didn't recognize at the time.

I'm sorry you're going through this...

Keep reading, sharing, and being kind to yourself.

 

[Pennyroyal]

Thank you for replying.