I suffer from anxiety

@samH28

Hey, thanks for sharing. Ranting can be a good way to release feelings; don't be afraid to do so here!

As someone that goes through panic attacks on occasion, I understand that they aren't fun to have, especially at the frequency you say you've been having them. Something I find helps me through panic attacks is to find some sort of distraction to keep your mind busy (listening to music, calling a friend, holding something in your hands, etc.) and to control your breathing. The 7 Cups growth path has a GIF that is a great example of a breathing exercise that could help you.

I know opening up may be tough, but have you tried telling your friend at least some of how you've been feeling? Starting a conversation about what you've been experiencing may help your friend understand you better and could lead to a strengthening of your connection.

I'm sorry to hear that you've been feeling the ways you have been; I hope you find relief from these feelings soon. Staying alive may seem difficult right now, but you are doing your best and I am so glad you are here. Hang in there <3

@samH28 I'm so sorry for what you're dealing with may Almighty LORD help though this your not Alone he's with you 🫂💋

@samH28

Hello, my name is Moon and I am a trained Listener here at 7 Cups. Thank you so much for being open about what you are going through, you are taking a bold step being so open and honest about your feelings.

I have been where you are at with the dark thoughts, panic attacks, and severe sadness and depression, it seems like you 

are feeling isolated since you haven't talked to a therapist and your best friend doesn't understand what you are going through. If you ever need to talk,

there are trained Listeners available to listen around the clock and help support you through this painful and scary time.

I know it must be extremely scary to feel so anxious and alone, and it's understandable why you have been depressed and had these thoughts you are experiencing. 

I just want to tell you how brave you are, and that I am proud you are taking this step in opening up, especially when you are struggling to even keep yourself alive.

I am glad you are here, please reach out if you need to because we really care about you here.

Hi SamH28. Let me share my story. I hope this helps. I have been dealing with depression for over 20 years. My last battle was about 6 months ago and it hit me pretty hard so I decided to see a psychologist for the first time in about 7 years. It helped me a lot. He discussed how anxiety and depression actually work and he also suggested for me to read 2 books. The 10 Best Ever Anxiety Management Techniques and Feeling Good. They discuss not only coping skills but talk about how the brain works in regards to anxiety and depression. I really liked the books and I am still reading them. I am not a huge fitness guy but for the last 5 months or so I take a walk in my hilly neighborhood and I also jog a little bit to get my heart rate up. This helps me tremendously. I usually do it on my lunch break because I work close to home. I am also on an anti depressant which is 20 mg of Lexapro and when I go through my anxiety/depression episodes I will take Klonopin. There is hope and you will be ok. Trust me.