Well-Rounded Recovery

Dateline: 05/19/99

Maybe you've been recently diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Maybe you feel like you've tried everything and nothing works. Or maybe you've been using one treatment method for a while and you're ready to add something else. Whatever your situation, consider that recovery from anxiety disorders often takes more than one treatment method. And it often takes hard work. If you're confused about how to create a recovery program, start simply. You'll find the basics below. In looking through these methods, have an open mind -- don't knock it until you've tried it AND if you've already tried it, try again! What do you have to lose?

Therapy
With the right therapist, therapy can change your life. Who is the right therapist? That all depends on you. Every therapist is different. Every therapist-client relationship is different because each individual interacts with another differently. If you realize and accept these differences, you will understand that it might take some work to find the right therapist who uses the right techniques for you. The main question you should ask perspective therapists is if they treat your particular disorder. If you haven't been diagnosed, let them know how you are feeling, but let them do the diagnosis. If you can't afford therapy, look for therapists who have sliding-scale fees. All the resources you need to find a therapist may be found in Therapy Net Links.

Medication
Medication is not for everyone, and not everyone wants to take it. Different medications may be used for different anxiety disorders. The key to being treated with medication is finding a doctor or psychiatrist whom you trust. It's helpful to find someone who will work with your therapist because your therapist will come to know you well. The Medication section will help you learn about ways medication is used to treat anxiety disorders. It also provides numerous links to information about the many medications used in treatment. However, if you have questions and confusion about your medication, please consult with your prescribing physician. You might also want to read When You Can't Afford Medication and Medication: A Difficult Decision.

Healthy Body -- Healthy Mind
Does a healthy body mean a healthy mind? You may have read that it does. However, the only true way to convince yourself is to start taking care of your body. A gentle warning -- it is not easy making lifestyle changes, so go easy on yourself and start slowly. For example, if you start a relaxation program, try only 10 minutes a day at first. If you decide to change your diet, try one change at a time. The Self-Help & Maintenance section contains many links on relaxation, breathing, exercise and nutrition -- all methods of improving your body's well-being. You may also want to take a peak at Exercise and Your Mood and Sleep Well, Feel Well.

A Change in Outlook
How do you look at the world? How do you look at yourself? These are not easy questions to answer. However, if your overall view of the world and yourself isn't a positive one, you may want to look into ways to change that view. It won't happen over night, and you should take it slowly. Low self-esteem? Read Self-Esteem & Anxiety Disorders Recovery. Anger problems? Take a look at Anger Management. If you haven't heard yourself laughing in a while, consider how you might Laugh Yourself Calm. Additionally, browse through Self-Help & Maintenance for links on self-esteem, positive thinking, anger and happiness. Find what works for you!

Support
Loving, unconditional support can be the key to recovery from anxiety disorders. True acceptance is a priceless gift. If you're not finding the support you need from the people around you, consider looking for a support group. Two places you can find support here are the Panic/Anxiety Disorders Bulletin Board and Panic/Anxiety Disorders Chat Room. Even if you do have loving friends and family, an anxiety support group can still give you something different. You might start with an online group, of which there are many, but consider an offline group, too, in which you can meet and make friends for life. Meanwhile, if you find that your loved ones are confused and unsupportive, give them the benefit of the doubt. Help them learn more about your condition, and guide them to the Net Links for Support People.

Self-Education
When all is said and done, only you know what's best for you, even if you don't feel all that confident about your judgment at this time. Talk with your therapist and read read read. Browse through the resources available at this site, from the Net Links to the feature articles. Take a look at the many related books available. Know your disorder inside and out. Listen to your mind and body -- and your heart. Trust your instincts. And take care of yourself!

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