Okay, this is going to sound strange
I used to worry a lot as a kid. I mean worry about everything. The first exams I took in high school, I spent more time crying about and thinking I'd never be able to keep all of it in my head then I actually did studying (I didn't have to worry, I did fine). After that, I never worried that much about exams again, I just studied. The worry has come back (along with a really bad depression, which I've had most of my life). Right now, I'm fixated on something. It's something I have absolutely no control over. It's something I can do absolutely nothing to change. I'd rather not say what it is because it's an absolutely stupid thing to be obsessed about. It's nothing bad. But it upsets me so much I can't concentrate. I can't get anything done at work because I'm constantly checking on updates for it (on a website). I find myself crying over it. I lose sleep over it. It's an event going on until the end of October and I'm going to drive myself crazy obsessing over it until then. I try not to think about it but it's not working. Any advice?
@gentleTurtle8750, I can see you have problem with anxious thoughts. Let me just hug you and tell you it's alright. You feel overwhelmed and trapped in your mind, but it's okay. You can learn how to cope. You are strong, and you are willing to break out from this situation. But please, don't push yourself, because right in this moment, you need all of your kindness and compassion towards yourself. You don't deserve any of the harsh treatment. You figthed for so long, so now you need to learn how to rest.
For the time being, I recommend you this:
- cute website, where you can let your worries fly to the sky;
- mental exercise, which can help you break the vicious cycle of racing thoughts;
- breathing relaxation website, with a nice narrator and with a variety of time length;
- 4-7-8 technique (breathe in through your nose for 4 seconds - hold breath for 7 seconds - exhale through mouth for 8 seconds), which will help you calm down and feel grounded to your surroundings.
I encourage you to use this resources as often as you feel like it. You don't have to limit yourself in any way. Community self-guide about anxiety has also plenty of practical tips.
Let me know, if any of this helped you overcome your situation. I'd love to hear how was your day.
Sending you lots of hugs!