is this anxiety?

leslieiv · 26-03-2012, 11:59 PM

i came across this site by chance, and it seems like i can get some answers here. so here it goes....
i cry because of everything. almost every social situation causes me to get teary-eyed. the thing i'm worried about is when i'm in crowded places (especially the mall) i feel like i can't breathe and a start sobbing. i also start crying whenever i'm acknowledged by someone of authority. even if it's in a friendly manner, if a policeman or even one of my professors singles me out, tears start running down my face. it's been like this for as long as i can remember. is there anything i can do to end this? i'd prefer not to talk to a counselor... i've never talked to a professional about it. my mom is so used to it that she feels it's completely normal. do you think i should talk to someone about it? i'm starting university soon and i'm not sure i will be able to manage the social stress that it is going to bring...

Tig · 27-03-2012, 12:54 AM

It does sound like you could be experiencing anxiety and depression. However, we can't diagnose you with anything on this website.

Regardless, it sounds like it is something you struggle with and makes life difficult for you to enjoy. Especially with the prospect of starting university.

Can I ask why you don't want to speak to a professional? It can be very scary speaking to a counsellor but it can also make a big difference. I think you should seek help. You deserve to enjoy a good & happy life & not to have these difficult emotions in what should be 'normal' circumstances.

leslieiv · 27-03-2012, 02:16 AM

i haven't seen a professional because my mom doesn't believe i should, and also because i'm just.. scared to.
thanks for your reply. i just need a push :)

Tig · 27-03-2012, 02:29 AM

It can be difficult for our parent/s to accept there is a problem because I guess they don't want to imagine their child is struggling but it doesn't mean there isn't a problem and that you shouldn't get help.

Would it be helpful for you to explain to your Mom how difficult you find things and how you would like to try and seek professional help?

xx

leslieiv · 27-03-2012, 02:41 AM

i think that's my only option

Tig · 27-03-2012, 02:45 AM

It does sound like it lovely and it's a brave decision to make but I really hope that it will help you. Wishing you the best of luck and if you need anything, don't be afraid to PM me <3

We are all here for you so keep posting if it is helpful for you.

x

megancheung · 28-03-2012, 08:31 AM

yep,i think you should talk to others,sharing your feeling,experience...

sapphire hearts · 29-03-2012, 01:32 PM

Is it possible you are having panic attacks? That the crying and feeling like you can't breathe could be a panic attack?

If it's a possibility - although I would still strongly recommend seeing a dr/therapist - there are things you can try yourself to alleviate these symptoms. I find that having a small, comforting object in my pocket - I use a smooth pebble - can give me something to think about other than how scared I am. There are grounding techniques that can be helpful as well. These also work for general anxiety.

I've suffered from social anxiety, general anxiety and panic disorder for over five years, so if you'd like to talk then please feel free to PM me.

*hugs* I know this is scary honey, but there are things you can do, from therapy to simple, at-the-time tricks to help calm you down. I hope this helps, and that you feel better.

Katie xxx