[GSFarm]

I was just curious if any of y'all struggled with managing your anxiety and a "romantic" relationship.

All throughout high school I never dated any one. I had crushes and went on dates but I couldn't force myself to be in a relationship. I dated one boy and I would just get sick to my stomach nervous over it so it didn't last long.

At the end of senior year a a life long friend told me how he'd always like me and I figured he was worth it to be nervous over - I guess you could say.

Now three years later and in college together - I have been facing a lot of anxiety due to the stress of school and have had several panic attacks. I take out a lot on him and threaten to break up with him when I really don't. I just want him to understand what I'm feeling and have a hard time getting through to him. He's so laid back and easy going while lately I've been very on edge and angry and anxious.

I feel lie my anxiety has changed me so much from the fun loving, easy going person he fell in love with. Quite honestly losing him terrifies me.

He is supportive - went to some "stress management" workshops and sits with me while I freak out and cry, but I feel like it's wearing on him too.

Just curious if this is normal and what everyone does to combat it and work through it.

[Travelinglady]

Hello, GSFarm, and welcome to Psych Central! Although most of us have some anxiety over meeting folks and dating, I am thinking you are more to the extreme on that. I am especially concerned about your added stress and the panic attacks and taking your frustrations out on your boyfriend.

I have Anxiety Disorder NOS, and I am finding it helpful to see a therapist about it. I recommend that to you, too. It would be great if you could learn to relax more, and I am sure your boyfriend would be glad, too.