Anxious No More

The last thing in the world I wanted to do was seek counseling, counseling is for ‘weaklings’ and people who need help, and no way I fitted into that category. But as my anxiety continued to grow and rule my life and my behavior, I watched and felt the negative impact it was having on my relationships on me and on my life. Then I found Glynis who gave me a safe place to be vulnerable and surprisingly being vulnerable made me feel stronger. I used to, in my social life, exhibit the emotions that I thought were expected of me and fitted the occasion, going through the motions so to speak. This was primarily in fear of being under attack or having to justify myself. I am no longer afraid to speak up and be a part of my environment, and although there are times when I hesitate, what I used to mistake for confrontation turns in to a conversation. I have also learned that I don’t always need to be the “rock” for my friends and family. In fact, those who love me like to have a turn in providing support and strength, so I have learned that some of the weight on my shoulders has been placed there by me. Glynis helped me to become aware of and acknowledge the roots of my anxiety, and to see that I don’t have to be afraid anymore. What do I have to be afraid of? “What is the worst case scenario”, is what I ask myself, and generally the answer is nothing that I can’t face and conquer. For anyone out there who is finding themselves dissolving into the couch or their surroundings, I say open your eyes, take a breath and ask yourself, is this how I want to live the rest of life? If the answer is “No”, and I hope it is, then do something about it, get some help and knock down those walls, escape from the confinement that makes you feel deceptively safe, and experience life. Be happy, that is my ultimate goal and I am getting there!