Anxiety

Recovery
#1

Hello there sober friends. I have a question regarding anxiety during sobriety. This is the longest i've gone without a drink in over 12 years. I noticed around day 81 i started to feel very anxious pretty much throught the whole day, it hasnt stopped and im currently on day 97. Is this normal? Why is this happening? And what has helped you? Id appreciate any feedback. Thank you

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#2

It’s not un-normal. Our past ways can take time to overcome. Have you tried going to meetings? Zoom or in person. AA or NA. Get plugged in.

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#3

Hi Erica, to help my anxiety I practice mindfulness, it helps me focus just on what’s in front of me. Also, if it persists, I suggest finding a mental health professional. They can be super helpful in treating/supporting when we have these types of responses. My anxiety definitely got worse in early sobriety, but as I continued to focus and use my sobriety tools I was able to manage it. I still see a therapist regularly to help.

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#4

I’m on day 243 and I still get anxious and uncomfortable in certain situations.. My therapist said I need to give myself some grace and time. You are basically 97 days old right now, I mediate, try breathing techniques and remind myself that I’m allowed to feel emotions. Everything is brand new to me. Hope this helps

#5

My anxiety comes and goes. I usually try deep breathing with focus on the exhale. Congrats on being sober this long

#6

What does giving yourself grace mean?

#7

Thanks Jen. I go to a therapist every week

#9

Meetings may help.

#10

I thru myself in to meetings for a year.that’s helped me out.

#11

I havent found any i like

#12

Keep looking.may take some time.

#13

Hi Erica! I have a little over 18 months. I have suffered from anxiety for years. I can honestly say sobriety has done wonders for my anxiety. I was in treatment for 6 months and I cannot tell you what an emotional roller coaster that time was! Give yourself time - your body is still adjusting. I wish you the best on your journey.

#14

Sober life is getting to feel all your emotions again! We are just used to numbing them. Anxiety is your minds tricking you into believing there is danger.

You are safe, you are strong. You are being given the opportunity for inner growth now.

This is very common. My anxiety was horrible my first year. I had to do a lot of work to understand how to work though my emotions.

You got this