almost over my anxiety disorders

[fred_h]

heya,

36 old frenchy here, with a history of anxiety disorders, GAD and panic attacks, etc... you name it, I most probably had it. :D

The good news is I managed to get over those issues, save for that recent health anxiety thingy popping up again. But I'm determined not to be tricked again into old paths, hence my decision to register here.

For those interested, the timeline :
- around 15y/o realised I'd die someday, and that totally freaked me out...
- 15 to 20 : first depressive and anxiety disorders, decided I'd suffer from a brain tumour, preferably, and first encounters with prozac & its friends
- 20 to 30 : full blown GAD "controlled" through paxil/xanax
- 30 to 35 : slowly came to realise maybe I wasn't that anxious anymore, and started a long, hectic paxil withdrawal
- 35 to now : prescription drugs free, smoke free and... almost anxiety free

[nomorepanic]

Hi fred_h

We just wanted to welcome you aboard to NMP. We hope you enjoy your stay here and get all the support and advice you need.

Please take some time to read the website articles on the left as well for loads of advice and tips.

[fred_h]

Thanks Nicola,

I sure hope now will be my turn to try and provide support to panic and anxiety sufferers. Of course it'll be a great way to prevent relapse on my side too, I suppose ;)

[OliviaD]

Hi - it's always great to read a success story. I'd like to know what helped you through anxiety (not meds alone, I'm sure).

[fred_h]

Hi Olivia,

You're right, meds didn't cure the disorders. They helped me feel/think/operate normally again, which was necessary so I could challenge and correct my faulty cognitive and behavioural patterns (black & white thinking, negative anticipation, avoiding unpleasant situations, etc).
And then, somehow, I have the feeling getting a bit older helped too... ;)