[Bostonj]

So I have dealt with a lot of anxiety over the last 3 months starting with Health Anxiety and transitioning to intrusive thoughts. It all started with the stresses of life. I am 30 and the father of 2 toddlers been married for 5 years and kind of feel like it started with frustrations w/ my family. My wife and I's relationship was up and down due to life stress and my children as most toddlers have their moments which cause frustration. I also work a very stressful job and have a lot of student loans. I understand life stress is a top cause of anxiety and I tend to push my stress to scary thoughts wether it be me getting sick, something bad happening to my family or even me going crazy. Intrusive thoughts are scary but I know are not reality you know. But I have to truly find a way to manage my stress as I am a happy fun guy who loves sports and my kids but I feel I am just not myself bc of the anxiety and stress. Any advice to get back to my normal self?

[CANDC]

Hi Bostonj. Welcome to Psych Central (PC). I am sorry you are feeling so filled with anxiety. Often therapist or psychiatrist can help with talk or med therapy. Anxiety Chat is on Fridays at 8PM EST EDT, but need to have 5 approved posts to go in chat room.

There are life style changes that can give some relief that I have tried. These are not remedies but things that help me cope.

Diet can have an affect on how we feel. I have to watch what I eat because foods I eat can stabilize my moods or exaggerate them. A high protein low carb diet with snacks or meals every 3-4 hours will over time reduce my swings. I also avoid alcohol and recreational drugs because those can really increase depression.

Here is what I use when my head gets over crammed with thoughts. Breathe in a natural way. Silently count one on the inhale and 2 on the exhale. 3 on the inhale and 4 on the exhale. Continue up to 10 then go back to 1. This helps me focus on breathing rather than the wall of thoughts.

Other lifestyle changes that help me are doing yoga, exercises, mindfulness, calm music, and being active on Psych Central.

Some people find the forums give them the compassion and empathy they seek. http://forums.psychcentral.com

Please feel free to private message me or any of the Community Liaisons by left clicking on the name in blue to the left of their post) for questions or just to share.