[KimWilt]

I've just joined this website, because lately I've been considering seeing a professional regarding some of my behaviour. I'm not sure if it's linked to anxiety, or whether their just odd habits, but nevertheless they keep me continuously high strung, I never feel like I can relax! If anyone with anxiety can tell me if they've experienced any of these symptoms or something similar, that would be appreciated!

Dog barking - Whenever my dog barks, I immediately get very stressed. It's not like "a fright" kind of reaction. My heart rate increases, my muscles tense and I get very panicky for 30 - 60 seconds, sometimes I feel nauseous.

Babies crying - My reaction to babies crying is exactly the same as the dog barking, but often can last longer.

Phone ringing - Just the sight of my phone lighting up with the red and green swipe options sends me into immediate panic. It doesn't matter who is calling, and I don't know why I feel this way, it's not as if I struggle to talk on the phone

Calling someone unfamiliar - Having to call people such as my dentist or even just a pizza ordering service makes me panic. I often have to take 5 minutes to prepare myself to make the call. Whilst on the phone, I'm extremely nervous and my throat feels very tight.

People yelling at me - If someone decides to really have a go at me for whatever reason, I get to a very nervous and panicked state. All my stomach muscles tense, my hands and feet clench and my breathing becomes very short and staggered.

Also, completely separate to anxiety, maybe I should be posting this somewhere else? But I find I get very angry very quickly. Small things agitate me and I often get so angry I throw up. It's a mixture of wanting to punch something or smash plates and just wanting to scream, but inside I know that none of those things will relieve my anger enough. It's a very frustrating feeling and I often end up crying and it takes quite a while to calm myself down.

Any responses will be appreciated!

[Werewoman]

I can relate to a lot of what you're experiencing. My anxiety triggers are different, like I react like you to things like lightning/thunder or if someone comes up behind me and touches me. I almost literally jump out of my skin.

I really relate to the sudden anger and I have been known to punch a wall or throw things. I've never hurt anyone, but sometimes I worry about it.

When I sought treatment for these problems, I was diagnosed with PTSD. I'm not saying that's what's causing your symptoms, because I'm not a doctor and not qualified to diagnose anyone, but I definitely think you should find a therapist and a psychiatrist you feel comfortable with and tell them what you are sharing here. I have found that a combination of therapy and meds to be a Godsend and while I still have bad days sometimes, I am much better than I used to be.

Keep us posted on what you decide to do and your progress. It's always great to hear from new members.

WW