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Spike in anxiety after 1.5 years of relative peace

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Old 04-23-2016, 03:14 PM
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Spike in anxiety after 1.5 years of relative peace

Hi all -

Just looking for some support, as I've recently experienced a sharp increase in general anxiety. Activities like waiting in line at the bank, going to the market, and driving in heavy traffic used to be a breeze. But the over the past 2 weeks, these types of chores have really spooked me! When the high anxiety hits me, I feel my hands and feet start to sweat, and often feel so tense that it makes it hard to focus on anything but my symptoms. On top of that, the muscles in the back of my neck and shoulders are very sore from all the tension and the pain is an irritating distraction, even when I am not feeling anxious! So far I have been able to avoid full-blown panic attacks and just "push through" the hard times. I am trying to keep the confidence that things will get better!

I've been on a low dose of Lexapro for 2 years and it's really been great for me. I have not changed my dosage or lifestyle. Has anyone else experienced general anxiety return after a long period of calm/peace? This weekend I am doing my best to relax at home and let my body and mind rest. Thanks for reading, gang!
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Old 04-23-2016, 03:21 PM
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Have you heard of the book ...from Panic to power?

I bought the audio book. It cost about 15$. It helped me.

I still have anxiety myself, but it is not worsening.

I managed quitting booze, so far, drug free.
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Old 04-23-2016, 03:53 PM
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Thanks D122 - yep, I've been sober for almost 4 years and it's certainly helped a ton! I finally managed to take hold of my anxiety about 2 years ago, but it's just odd to me that it's kind of reappeared over the past 2 weeks after a long hiatus.
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Old 04-24-2016, 09:45 AM
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Any change in your recovery routine, meetings and fellowship?

I often experience increases in anxiety and depression when I step away from what's worked for 11 years. It's a warning light to me to get back to my program of recovery.
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Old 04-24-2016, 03:46 PM
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I have ebbs and flows too BigS.

I know Anna recommends Panic to Power too, along with all the rest below, but I've not read it yet.

Anxiety/Panic Attacks/Depression

Amen, Daniel Change Your Brain, Change Your Life
Anderson, Neil Victory Over the Darkness & Bondage Breaker
Bassett, Lucinda From Panic to Power
Burns, David MD When Panic Attacks
Chodron, Pema When Things Fall Apart
Chodron, Pema The Places That Scare You
Doidge, Norman MD The Brain That Changes Itself
Dyer, Wayne The Power of Intention and Change Your Thoughts, Change Your Life
Jeffers, Susan Feel the Fear and Do it Anyway
Kabat-Zinn, Jon Mindful Way Through Depression
Lesser, Elizabeth Broken Open
Melemis, Steven I want to change my life- how to overcome anxiety, depression
Millman, Don The Way of the Peaceful Warrior
Orsilla, Ken Mindful way Through Anxiety
Hope you get an 'ebb' soon
D
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