Hi Cleo: Yes, your coping skills will come automatically, mine do but I've been doing it for many years. The doc and I are hoping the SSRI will help the BP to stay down. I've had the anxiety for almost 2 yrs. now and it has been hard for the BP. I've had BP problem since late 40's, so it isn't anything new. It's been 4 wks. on SSRI but only two wks. full strength - at least the nausea seems to be gone. Still challenging negative thoughts re: health issues which scare me right now. My paternal grandmother, her two daughters had strokes in their 60's. Two died from it and I think that's what is troubling me right now - need to focus on the positives and not think catastrophic thoughts while BP is high. I'm not their ages and with the new meds. out today, and taking good care of myself, this is positive.