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Anxiety

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Stress and anxiety have become an inevitable part of modern life. With demanding work schedules, personal responsibilities, and the constant pressure to perform, it’s no wonder that many adults find themselves struggling to cope. While there are various pharmaceutical options available to manage stress and anxiety, many people are turning to natural alternatives. In this blog post, we’ll explore 10 natural ways to reduce stress and anxiety, including supplements, exercise, food, and lifestyle changes. Exercise Regularly One of the most effective ways to combat stress and anxiety is through regular exercise. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases endorphins, which are natural mood-boosters. Exercise also helps to reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, and improves sleep quality. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, most days of the week. Practice Mindfulness Meditation Mindfulness meditation is a powerful tool for reducing…

For years I avoided taking medication for my anxiety disorder.   I did everything else before deciding to try drugs.   I focused on exercise and natural supplements such as L-theanine, Valerian, and Lemon Balm.  From my own experience L-theanine helped the most but it became clear that it wasn’t enough. In late 2019 I finally decided to to to a psychiatrist because I felt like I had hit rock bottom.  Thankfully I wasn’t suicidal but I was always anxious and depressed and every day was a struggle.  I remember just sitting in my car at the parking lot at work every morning just wishing that things would get better and dreading going in.  Mornings were the absolute worst. I’m so glad I went when I did….God only knows how bad it could have gotten for me since this was just a few months before the COVID situation which is still going…

After being on Lexapro for close to 2 years I’ve decided it’s time to start weaning off.  As I mentioned in a previous post Lexapro has been a game changer for me and saved my life but I’m ready to see if I can stop taking it.  The side effects of profuse sweating, weight gain, and low libido have taken it’s toll.  And while I feel like my anxiety and depression are under control sometimes I feel like I’m a zombie. From what I understand tapering off antidepressants can be difficult so I’m not doing this alone.  I’ve been consulting with my psychiatrist and we’ve decided to do this slowly.  My regular dosage has been 20mgs and for the last  month I’ve gone down to 15mgs.  I am now just starting at 10mgs and will see how I feel over the next several weeks. Symptoms from withdrawals can effect people…

I’ve been taking Lexapro (aka Escitalopram) for close to 2 years now and I can say that it’s literally saved my live.  I’m not saying that this is some sort of magic pill that will make all of your problems, anxiety, and depression go away but it has worked wonders for me. You can read about my Lexapro journey here. It was by the grace of God that I decided to see a psychiatrist in late 2019 before the COVID pandemic took off and I was stuck at home.  My life had become one of constant anxiety so it was no surprise to me when I was diagnosed with GAD (general anxiety disorder) and mild depression. My low point came a few weeks after my first appointment when I was so stressed that I took a sick day and went to the local nature preserve to try to find some…

2020 was a tough year.  Who would have ever thought the year would have ended with us all still living under the shadow of COVID.  It almost seems surreal. Even though it seems like we are still far away from getting back to normal I am thankful to still be pushing ahead. I’m also thankful that my wife and kids have been able to spend more time together.  My wife and I both have been working from home and my kids have been doing remote learning on and off.  This has been an opportunity for us to do things during the day like taking a walk or having a quick footrace at lunch which is something I never had the time to do before. It was a difficult year but I’ve been blessed to continue working.  And while it’s been stressful I’ve been able to improve the financial position of…

In life you are either in a storm, going into a storm or coming out of a storm. If you remember this it will help give you some perspective during the tough times. Speaking from my own experience, some days my anxiety has been worse than usual on some days as I continue to work from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. At times the challenges in my life can feel overwhelming and I feel extremely isolated. If you feel this way at times it can help to take a step back and assess your situation. This has really helped me. I’ve found that it’s really easy to lose perspective when you’re at home all day and the challenges at work can seem all compassing. Add  in kids running around or an unhappy spouse and these have been trying times to say the least!  Here are some tips that have helped…

It goes without saying that COVID-19 has impacted our daily lives.  These are unprecedented times and this global pandemic has affected everyone.  Over a million people have tested positive with the coronavirus and millions more have become unemployed. During these uncertain times it is easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed and filled with fear and anxiety.  Everyone reacts differently to stress but here are some tips to help you through these difficult times. Don’t Fixate on the News Turning on the TV to watch news these days can be a dangerous and depressing thing.  Every time you flip to the news the number of sick and dead is all over the screen.  It’s easy to fixate on these stats and depressing news and let it permeate your soul.  Instead just watch a few minutes of news to stay current and then watch something else, or read a book, or go for…

As we all weather this coronavirus storm together we can find some comfort in leaning on a Higher Power.  When I am struggling with bouts of deep anxiety I will often repeat the mantra “Let go and Let God” over and over in my head. This bible verse can hopefully comfort you in these uncertain times! Psalm 91 New Living Translation (NLT) Psalm 91 1 Those who live in the shelter of the Most High     will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. 2 This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety;     he is my God, and I trust him. 3 For he will rescue you from every trap     and protect you from deadly disease. 4 He will cover you with his feathers.     He will shelter you with his wings.     His faithful promises are your armor and protection. 5 Do not be afraid of the terrors…

It seems surreal but our lives changed overnight thanks to the coronavirus.  In a matter of days a national state of emergency was declared, the NBA cancelled the remainder of the season, the NCAA basketball tournament was cancelled, and celebrities like actor Tom Hanks announced that he and his wife had contracted the virus. The coronavirus is impacting our daily lives in ways we couldn’t imagine just a month ago and this is just the beginning. People are getting sick and some are dying, the global financial markets are in free fall, schools are closing across the country, and people are working from home. We are isolating ourselves with “social distancing”.  It’s just a matter of time before companies start having layoffs.  In other words COVID-19 is no joke. However a weird and unexpected thing has happened to me during this crisis. I feel less anxiety and depression than I…

Well I finally went to a psychiatrist after dealing with anxiety for years. It has gotten so bad after I started my new job that I decided to seek professional help. During my appointment I was diagnosed with mild depression and general anxiety disorder more commonly known as GAD. The GAD diagnosis didn’t surprise me but the mild depression diagnosis definitely did. The doctor prescribed 10mg of Lexapro. I read some real horror stories online so I was afraid to take it but after talking with my wife I decided to take the plunge. I need to get better and if this drug can help I owe it to myself and my family. First Week So far I’m on day 3 and I feel a little nauseous at times but so far so good. Maybe also a bit more tired but nothing I can’t fight through. Tomorrow will be my…