[azjordan]

Well it's been going on since 2012, but the things in life that I used to find very pleasurable have been fading away instantly. First it was just a couple of TV shows, but then it became all TV shows and movies and books and music. I can't watch or read or listen to music without having this very tight feeling in the core of my chest. That tight feeling has ruined everything I used to find pleasurable. It got to its worse when I all of a sudden couldn't enjoy my life long hobby of drawing. I went through multiple therapists and tried multiple types of medication, but the tight feeling in my chest won't go away, and it's that tight feeling in my chest that has prevented me from enjoying the things I used to enjoy. I honestly don't know how to explain this any more or else I may send out mixed messages or confuse people. But I am in desperate need of help outside my therapy and medication.

[CANDC]

Hi azjordan, I am so sorry you are feeling so anxious and distressed. Usually if people have not found a med that gives relief then they will contact their psychiatrist to try others. If one psychiatrist has not helped they will find another that specializes in their diagnosis.

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.