I always believe an expert on ladders is somebody who has fallen off one. I happen to have fallen off a ladder some years ago, thankfully I only broke a few bones and lived to tell the tale.

I have suffered with anxiety, both general anxiety and health anxiety for many years, you would think a 68-year-old man would have all the answers. Over the years I have seen hypnotherapists, counsellors, I have been in a sleep clinic due to awful nightmares which really makes my anxiety peak.

I go to the gym twice a week. I walk my dog regularly. I play the ukulele. I do mindfulness meditation. I sit in front of a light therapy lamp, I have spent a small fortune of vitamins, minerals. I eat a healthy balanced diet. I have cut out alcohol completely. I have cut down on tea and coffee. I drink lots of water. I eat fruit regularly. I have read numerous self-help books,  have cold showers, I light incense sticks, listen to music, listen to podcasts,

I still work part-time as a plumber but often feel frightened of going to work, thinking I will fail.

I do think so-called experts in anxiety could not possibly understand how you feel, unless they have experienced it themselves. It really is extremely frightening and debilitating. I have tried medication, without success, due to a genetic heart condition which affects the electrical activity in my heart, there are many medications that I am not allowed to take, this health condition, Brugada syndrome has taken a lot of my family, but I am fortunate    to have a defibrillator fitted. I am also fortunate to have a very supportive wife who helps me through. 

The last few weeks have been awful, I have asked my doctors for a blood test, now booked for the end of January, to check hormones etc. I doubt they will show anything, but I have to eliminate this to satisfy my mind. I sometimes think I am going insane with a mind hard to control. 

I would really be interested in any ideas or tips that have worked for you, I do realise everyone is different and what works for one may not work for another. 

Looking forward to any tips, suggestions that have helped you. 

Paul 

A Moodscope member