The feeling is suffocating. My chest tightens, and I can hardly breathe. My throat feels scratchy, my palms are clammy, and my legs tremble beneath me. All I want is to escape. Where’s the exit? How do I get out of here? What if I faint or lose consciousness? The familiar battle between fight or flight rages within me. Where’s my escape route?
Panic attacks.
This chaotic internal experience is a glimpse into my reality. It felt as if the weight of the world was crushing me, leaving me helpless and overwhelmed. After enduring countless panic attacks and facing relentless anxiety in my early twenties, I realized it was time to seek help. My relationships were strained, my job was at risk, and, most importantly, my well-being was in jeopardy.
I often pondered why this was happening to me. Life seemed stable; my career was secure, my loving partner (now husband) was supportive, and I was surrounded by a caring family.
During my first therapy session, I was flooded with emotions, unsure of what to expect and terrified of the journey ahead. I broke down as I confessed to my therapist that I was dodging any situation that might trigger my anxiety. With compassion, she offered me a simple yet profound piece of advice: “What’s the worst that can happen?”
Six words. Just six words that shifted my perspective on anxiety. What was I truly afraid of? Back then, it was basically everything—being lost in a crowded mall, abruptly needing to leave a meeting, or feeling the urge to pull over while driving on the freeway. Life felt like an intricate maze, and I was hopelessly lost.
After several sessions and deciding to start a low dose of anti-anxiety medication, I dove into learning coping strategies. Now, I no longer live in fear of my mental health. Am I always in control? Not at all. Do I still experience moments of panic and anxiety? Absolutely.
Today, I’m a mother to an adorable little girl who has yet to grasp the concept of mental health. One day, I will tell her it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. I trust she will understand that she is stronger than any mental health challenge that may come her way.
If you find yourself feeling lost like I once did, keep pushing forward. You are not alone. Perhaps you are a mother who feels the immense weight of your responsibilities daily. Remember, you are a warrior. Even the strongest among us grapple with mental illness. As a new mom, I often feel my anxiety creeping in with the pressures of parenthood. But I refuse to be afraid of what lies ahead. Mental illness is real, challenging, and frankly, a nightmare. However, it will not conquer me. Not today.
For more insights on parenting and mental health, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination at Cleveland Clinic. And if you’re interested in exploring family planning options, you might also find it helpful to read about the at-home insemination kit.
In summary, the journey through anxiety can be daunting, but with the right support and perspective, it is possible to navigate these challenges. Embrace the strength within you, and remember that you are not alone in this fight.