Re: Introducing Myself-Beth

[Guest guest]

Hi Caitlin,

Thanks for the welcome. I never thought about hormones being a cause of the

anxiety. I am of that " certain age " . Thank you for the suggestions and

support.

Beth

--- Caitlin Kennedy wrote:

>

> Did the anxiety come after you started the Oxycontin and Oxycodone? I take the

same pain medications and I have been having more and more severe anxiety as

time goes. But my life is very hectic, so it could just be from all that. Or

hormones, mine sure are messed up right now!

[Guest guest]

Hi Beth

I'm 44 and recently joined this terrific group. I have had a type of

inflammatory arthritis (''reactive'' - similar to rheumatoid) since I was 27 and

also have chronic pain from damaged nerves.

I take prozac for depression and have done so for the last 5 years. Without an

antidepressant I tip into a 'life's not worth living' mindset, whereas with it I

can still see reasons for living

Research has shown that arthritis is very strongly linked to depression - and I

suspect all chronic illnesses or chronic pain would too. Unlike 'normal' (acute)

illnesses, there is no end in sight hence the effect on our mood and levels of

anxiety. For me it is also not knowing what is round the corner (in terms of

more surgery for affected joints) in the future etc. I like to be in control and

I cannot be with arthritis!

The upside for me is that my disease has made me a more compassionate person and

I have found that doing things for others helps me feel I still have something

to contribute to society. I volunteer at my local Cancer Society and work

part-time (I can't manage fulltime.)

The other thing I have done very recently is to start up a social support group

for other local people with arthritis. We meet for lunch once a month. It makes

me feel less alone with my disease.

Be kind to yourself - find hobbies and activities that are soothing (I read,

listen to music and do jigsaw puzzles). Eat nutritious food and get enough sleep

- even if you need sleep meds to achieve it (I take zopiclone).

I have also found counselling very helpful. I make an appointment irregularly,

basically when I'm at the end of my tether!

You have joined a wonderful group

in New Zealand

>

>

> I now am suffering from major depression and generalized anxiety disorder as

well. Right now this is all majorly overwhelming and I'm in need of some coping

tips.  How does someone cope when it seems everything is going downhill at once?