I had a stroke n 31/8/19. Since then i have been suffering with crippling anxiety. When i have something to worry about it just blows up in my head into something huge and i cant function with the worry. Does anyone else have this problem? Thanks.
Hi Capricorn Dancer, anxiety - yes, I hear you! For me, it took time to overcome. I changed my mindset. In today's world, it is important to sort out the financial stuff. Everything else is simpler. I wrote down 'stuff' and once done, easier to deal with. I had to find ways to 'calm down' my brain (thoughts, emotions, etc). Be kind to yourseelf!
Thanks Michael. I am seeing a counsellor tomorrow to try to help me with it
Hi Capricorn dancer,
Thank you for sharing this with us. We are sorry to hear about your stroke and the anxiety you’ve been feeling.
Unfortunately anxiety after stroke is common, with up to a third of stroke survivors feeling anxious or depressed following a stroke. It’s really reassuring to hear that you’re seeing a counsellor tomorrow. Counsellors and psychologists provide a safe space to discuss your current feelings and can provide you with strategies to reduce anxiety and the impact it’s having on your life. They may teach you a range of psychological and mindfulness based strategies that can help manage anxiety and stress. Eating well and exercising regularly can also help.
We also recommend you continue to speak to your GP who can monitor your mental health and discuss other treatment options if needed, such as medication or a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist if talking therapy with the counsellor doesn’t help.
Here are some of our resources you might find helpful:
Our podcast on depression and anxiety, our fact sheet on depression and anxiety and blog post by StrokeLine.
Please feel free to call us on StrokeLine to speak to a health professional for further advice, information and support on 1800 787 653 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm AEDST).
Best wishes,
Chloe and Simone, StrokeLine
Hi Capricorn Dancer, it's great that you've reached out. I don't have crippling anxiety but since my stroke I have moments of getting anxious over things that would never have affected me pre-stroke. I'm lucky because I have a very supportive partner and so I can tell him it's happening and he eiteher gives me room to settle myself or goes through things with me.
I noticed in your reply to Michael taht you are going to see a counsellor so I hope that goes well.
Toni
Thanks Toni. How lucky you are to have a supportive partner to talk things over with. Good luck with your recovery
regards
Barbara
Hi Capricorn Dancer,
I found a good counsellor essential, I attended a mindfulness course and this practice still helps me with many situations.
Wishing you well.
Sue