Still working on conquering fear

So, my writing prompt today was this picture. I have to start this with the acknowledgement that I have a LONG way to go with conquering my fear.

I think that one of my biggest goals this year is to be able to work through my anxieties. I don't know how successful I will be, but I need to at least make small steps. I have developed serious anxieties through the trials and tribulations I have gone through. Being honest, I am being treated for social anxiety and General Anxiety Disorder. I have things that help me through my anxiety. If anyone else is having problems with anxiety, you are not alone! It is not imaginary. However, I am also learning that you do not have to live with it ruling over you.

First, we need to define the difference between worrying and anxiety disorder. I am going to define it as my therapist stated to me. For the longest time, I was convinced I was just a worry wort and needed to get over it. I am learning, however, that I have anxieties that are disrupting my ability to live a normal, healthy life. GAD is better shown as:

 

Friends: One of my biggest sources of support with my struggles are with my friends. I have a couple very close friends that I can talk to. It is really awesome to have people in my life that I know I can just vent to and they understand. They are the ones that know me well enough to know that parties are such a HUGE deal for me. As I have stated before, I love to plan parties but I have a great tendency of cancelling when the date comes. If I can find an out, I will take it. Thankfully, I have friends that understand this and make sure that I feel comfortable and can talk about things.

Self-Soothing: Another method that I have used to deal with my anxiety is with self-soothing methods. From the time a person is born, they find ways to soothe their anxieties. Infants nurse or cling close to their parents, toddlers will find a favorite blanket or stuffed animal, and children will begin to learn how to deal with changes. Through experiences that happen through life, your ability to handle everything will change. You develop fears based on things that scared you in the past. I am beginning to learn methods of self-soothing that will help me deal with the fear and anxiety of the unknown. One is to sleep. I am starting to sleep on things and try not to panic immediate. The other is being okay with crying. It sounds childish, but sometimes with a good cry, I just feel better. You can also use meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and exercises.

So, with all that said, I am still growing and learning. I do seek therapy and am looking at re-starting Cognitive Behavior Therapy where they will work on calming my anxieties. I am also on medication. I wish I could give you more advice to dealing with anxiety, or state that it is a game, but I can't. I really enjoy being out of the house, but it isn't as easy as just jumping in the car and going. If someone tells you that they have trouble getting out and doing things, don't assume they are lazy. I leave my comfort zone for my children. It takes a LOT of work, but I know how much it makes them happy to do things. You are not alone and it is not something to be ashamed of. I am looking forward to continuing to grow and break some of the barriers I have built in my life.