Family Nerves

hi Nina,

          Its good that your dad understands and maybe you should have a chat, My experiences of anxiety generally tell me that my head is giving me a whole lot of lies, what ifs and excuses but reality is its all rubbish. Think of good times and experiences like christmas or family birthdays where there are people around.

I would generally think of the worst jokes imaginable to share, that way i am in full control of me. I am purposely bringing critisism on myself but i`m in charge.

good luck

phil 

Hi KnittingNina, I have just read your post and was wondering how you coped at the get together?

Anxiety really is so hard and the more you think/over think then the worse the situation will appear.

When I have to go outside my comfort zone or I am facing a situation outside my control i concentrate on my breathing. It helps me to focus on me instead of my surroundings or what could potentially cause me anxiety.

Headspace do a free app to download which was recommended. 

I do hope that you have a good catch up and the evening wasn't too overwhelming for you. 

Julie x

Hello, thanks for the comments, I managed it! I sat in the corner for dinner and only spoke if someone asked me a question, I concentrated on eating my meal without spilling food or drink everywhere, as I tend to do when I am nervous, which helped I think. I was very loud but my Dad kept an eye on me as did my brother. It was easier after the meal because everyone split into smaller groups and I could stick with my dad and we played cards with my cousins which was nice :) . Focusing on my breathing definitely helped to calm me down before hand so thanks for that tip :) . I hope you both are doing well this week xx

Hi Knitting Nina, Well done on getting through the evening. You should give yourself a big pat on the back for getting through it with no blips.

We can be so judgmental of ourselves and we really are our own worst enemies.

So pleased for you and the fact that focusing on your breathing or on eating helped you. The breathing strategy really does work and gets better with practice. I have now started doing it when I am not feeling anxious etc.

Focusing on anything that diverts your mind from panic/anxiety is a great tool.

Talking loud/fast is a symptom of anxiety but with time and concentrating/focusing it will get better. It isn't life threatening though is it .

The more you practise the above ,the easier you will find being in large groups/different situations .

I now speak to a group of 60 members as my role as a club leader for adults with learning difficulties. I used to get nervous/anxious but now it doesn't faze me and it gives me a chance to release my "loud" voice.

Always here to listen, chat or just to have a giggle.

Have a fun filled day.

Julie xx