The anxiety has been real over here the last few weeks. If we’re really counting, I’ve noticed an uptick since my diagnosis. Increased anxiety after something like that is totally normal. However, I didn’t expect it to add to it.
As Spring finally began to peek her head through Winter’s gray fog, I felt some hope. I’ve always been more down when it’s cold and dreary out. MS and SAD share a few different symptoms. MS comes with its own symptoms.
So when Winter rolls around, I know things are going to get ugly. (outside, and in my head)
After initially being hopeful, I started mini panicking. All of my flares have happened in the Spring. I have years worth of hospital records with an intake date in April or May. Spring is beautiful, but it also comes with risks for me.
—–> Fast forward a couple days from when I originally drafted this post.
The dreaded flare has begun to peak its head. Saturday and Sunday were the worst I’ve felt in quite awhile. I’m slowly getting better, fingers crossed. It made me realize just how important this post is – anxiety is a bitch. Having it before getting diagnosed was bad enough. Compounding it immensely because now I know for sure what it is, a couple ideas on how to manage it, and constantly wondering whether I’m doing enough?
Like I said, the anxiety is real over here right now.
Feeling flarey means stress prevention and reduction is of the utmost important at the moment. Below I’ve gathered my favorite tips + tricks, plus some great advice for those newly diagnosed, or just struggling in general!
Dealing With Anxiety and Chronic Illness
Realize You Aren’t Alone
This may not be a tip, but it’s one of the most important steps in dealing with anxiety. A lot of people think they’re alone or unique in feeling this way – you definitely are not. We’re human. We’re allowed to experience all the messy emotions that come along with it. I’ll be the first to admit this is the hardest step for me, but in the end, knowing I’m not alone helps me manage my anxiety so much. This link can help you find a group near you if you need a little extra support!
Try to Breathe
Of course I’d start with the most obvious, (and usually, most annoying) tip for dealing with anxiety. But, it works. There’s tons of studies that show how influential our breathing can be – intentionally slowing and calming your breathing patterns for a while is the easiest and a great first step to combat anxiety. This is one tip that can seriously change your life, anywhere, anytime.
Journal and Vent Those Feelings
Getting your feelings out is a great step in moving towards a more manageable life. Journaling can help you better manage those thoughts and ideas that lead towards anxiety. Here are some great journal prompts to help you start a new habit. Get those feelings out, people.
Get Moving
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t believe that exercise is a cure-all for any issue that arises. People who know me in real life probably think I feel the opposite – Hitting the gym and the yoga mat is very important to me. However, I do know there is a time and place for medication. For those times when it can be avoided, there are a ton of reasons to up your steps. If it’s possible for you, I definitely suggest exercising – after consulting your Dr. You know what they say – ALWAYS contact your Dr before beginning anything new.
Get Your Thoughts Under Control
Since before my diagnosis, meditation was one of my besties. I always thought I wasn’t capable of it, until I realized it’s something we learn, not that we’re born knowing. This article gives some very fascinating information and breaks down why and how meditation can benefit anxiety. My experiences aren’t nearly as technical as the article, but I can tell you the way I feel mentally after meditating is unbelievable. I try to practice everyday.
Stop Caring
I obviously don’t mean the important things like family or friends. I mean quit aring about societies expectations of you. Stop striving for perfection. There are so many things to be grateful for that we miss out on when we’re busy trying to keep up with the Jones’s. This is easier said than done, as we’re bombarded with messages from advertising and tv daily that the opposite is true. This is one of my favorite memes EVER that I’ve posted on Insta. It really helps me get my priorities straight.
See a Dr
This is the 21st century – there are options out there. I’m on antidepressant, like a LOT of adults in the world. Sometimes I need something when the anxiety is driving me crazy. I also see a counselor and get acupuncture every other week. This, above anything else, has helped in my opinion. But above all, I want to stress – GO SEE A DR OR HEALTH CARE PRACTITIONER.
“Nothing is permanent in this wicked world — not even our troubles.” — Charlie Chaplin
I hope you can find something in the tips above that help, or maybe you will here – and if you’ve got any good ones yourself, let me know!
