Anxiety affecting my day to day life

Lorraine, I was trying to remember what it was, and came across it the other day. There's a program called "New Access" online, I think federally funded, but run by Beyond Blue. Might be a starting point. 

Take care of yourself, Lyn

I have thought about some counselling. I think I am entitled to 6 free sessions. I am not to keen to openly talk to someone about my worries but yes, maybe they could suggest some strategies.  I have an appointment with my GP on Monday, I will have a chat to her about it,  Thank you Lyn.

Hi Lorraine. I would agree with everything that's been said so far. I guess the other thing to think about would be some counselling with a psychologist, if that's available in your area. If you get you GP to write a Mental Health Treatmemt Plan, Medicare will cover some of the cost for up to 10 visits per year. This could help you work on strategies to manage your anxiety, rather than relying on medication. There are also some good online resources available, some provided by government. 

Take care, Lyn

Hi Lorraine,

Its normal for your mind to wander during meditation.  When you notice it does just relax and refocus on your breathing.  It's like anything, it takes practise and some days your head just wont be in it.

The http://www.meditationoasis.com/ website has some how-to's on meditating. 

cheers

Mira

Thank you Summer, I have just changed oncologist as my previous one has just retired. I have not discussed this with her as yet but yes you are right I should discuss it with her first,  My next appointment with her is not for a few more weeks. I might see if I can get an earlier appointment.  I have not started hormone therapy as yet. I having a blood test to decide on which one I need to go on.

My GP has prescribed Effexor. I really do not want to deal with anymore nasty side effects at the moment. I am going to wait and speak to my oncologist first. 

Thank you Mira, I have tried a little meditation, but my mind tends to wander.   I will have a look at your recommendations and give it another go. I really do not want to be reliant on medication.

Hello Lorraine

Did you discuss the issue with your oncologist ?  My oncologist advised me that I could not take Zoloft with Tamoxifen as it stops Tamoxifen doing its job.  Do check that out.

Zoloft is great but it does take 6 weeks to kick in properly.  I was then put on Effexor but that is terrible to get off as the side-effects are awful.

If you need someone to talk to I am here for you - just send me a personal message and we can chat in more detail.

Hugs

Summer  :-)

Hi Lorraine,

I've had issues with anxiety for years.  The thing that I have found helped the most was some guided relaxation podcasts that I found on iTunes, the best ones were by innerhealth studios.  Learning to control my breathing and thoughts via meditation podcasts helped as well, I can recommend the ones by meditation oasis .  Having these handy on my ipod has helped me get through some really rough times including the cancer.

Hope that helps.

cheers

Mira

Agree with you there.  Maybe they just give me enough relief to get out and start moving, kind of start helping myself.  I don't know. The first time I was very depressed - and counted the hours to take the next pill - as soon as I felt better I kind of start forgetting to take them anyway, but found I could cope by myself . 

Pam 

Thank you  Pam, I am not keen on going on to medication but if it does help I will give it a go as I can cannot continue on with this constant state of anxiety. I don't want to be on medication long term, so I hope, like you, a few months will help.