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Addiction

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2024-03-27 3:02 PM

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Quit Smoking Community

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Browse through 411.742 posts in 47.053 threads.

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15 years ago 0 3 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Hello

I'm not so new here, I signed up about a week ago but was to afraid to write something.  But, alas here I am!  I am 20 years old and live in Canada.  I've had panic disorder, social anxiety and agoraphobia for as long as I can remember.  However, I'm starting to find out what triggers me and how I can challenge myself.  I feel i've made a great stride as I just graduated form a program called IMAP (integrated mood and anxiety).  I really got the opportunity to understand my illness and meet some very helpful and wonderful people.  I have had the first positive thought in my entire life, for example, "I am going to get better".  Seems paltry but I think its a great step in the right directon.  I'm also seeing a CBT specialist and he also does work with Exposure Therapy.  I really hope things work out for me.  I want to have a career, go out with friends and well....HAVE A LIFE! 
 
Anyways I think i'm moving in the right direction...I mean after all, I did just introduce myself...right....?
15 years ago 0 3 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
YES

My friends always rag on me for not playing shows with them and not going to see them in clubs and bars etc....HOWEVER!
 
I went with a little pub with my dad and brother a little while ago, and it was terrible...at first...then it was OK.  I did notice that my anxiety decreased but never really went away.  I did enjoy myself as much as I could though, it started as panic and all I wanted to do was ru away, but I knew I was safe, even though my mind was telling me otherwise.  Eventually the panic melted into a general/social anxiety which was managable but still uncomfortable.  This is a pretty big step for me, I mean sticking it out is something that doesn't happen very often.  Also the next couple of weeks after that.  I went to ANOTHER little Bar/Pub with my distant relatives boyfriend.  This was EXTREMELY panic provoking becuase I wasn't with someone I felt safe with.  HOWEVER....I HAD FUN....eventually, I guess thats the whole point right? To stick it out as  much as you can, (I didn't start by going to some dance club ) and try as hardas you can to deal with the panic, because what I did learn, as much as I hate to admit it, is that eventually, even if you don't run, panic decreases to a certain degree.  Also if I hadn't had gone to the pub before with my dad and brother, I think I wouldn't have stayed or even of gone in the other situation.  I guess, no I KNOW exposure works now, and small steps are definatly key in getting used to everyday situations, and sometimes you might just have fun!
 
Thanks for listening, I just feel proud, I never would have even thought about going near a bar 3 months ago.
15 years ago 0 3 logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo logo 0
Smoking

I'm a smoker on and off for about 4 year.  I definatly think it effects my anxiety.  However, having a smoke after something tough or hard to do makes me thinkim relaxed.  Possibly due to the 'feel good' response nicotene has on the brain.  Although I do know for a fact that smoking increases blood pressure, heart-rate and muscle tention.  Just a thought, like wen I think about quiting.  Although right now I almost feel I need smoking to make me 'feel good'.  When I do start to notice some major shifts in my axiety and panic I am seriously considering quitting...again. 
 
Thanks for listening.