08.09.17

Tackling Anxiety.

Anxiety, you are the worst. Like, what the heck are you and where did you come from?? That is how I still feel today about Anxiety after I’ve struggled with it for a little over 4 years. I’ve mentioned on social media that I have anxiety from time to time and I found that many of you wanted me to do a blog post on this topic.. so let’s go! Today, I am talking all about anxiety. From my first anxiety attack, what triggers my anxiety, and the things that help me manage it without the use of medication.

Growing up, I never struggled with anxiety. I mean, yes before a test or track meet I got anxious, but never anxiety. It wasn’t until after I had my first daughter that in hit me and when it did it hit hard.

My first anxiety attack was at my own bachelorette party. Sucks, right? A little something about me, I had Sutton before we got married and so my first big trip after having her was my bachelorette party in Miami, Florida. I get there and all is going well, but day 2 came around and I don’t know exactly what spurred it– motherly instincts, separation anxiety, a hangover… probably a nice combination of it all, but I had my first panic attack. I legit thought I was dying and I was never going to see my daughter again. I was so scared.

This was only the first experience. I got through it and made it home safely and from there anxiety became a part of my life and still is today. It used to haunt me, I was so scared of just the thought of having anxiety that I would trigger a panic attack. I realize how bizarre this sounds, but it’s true. The attacks became so bad that at one point I couldn’t breathe and once, I fainted because of it. 

For the most part, my anxiety stems from fear. Since I was a kid I’ve always been a worrier, but parenthood/adulthood got the best of me. It’s like I am constantly in the state of “fight or flight” and it is mentally and emotionally exhausting. I fear dying mostly, which most people do I assume but, on a bad day these fatalistic thoughts can consume me. What if I die and my kids grow up without me as their mother? What if my kids die, I wouldn’t be able to go on… what if my husband dies, I couldn’t do this without him and I’d never find a man I love as much as him. I dream up terrible, fatalistic scenarios in my head constantly when my anxiety is really bad and it’s straight up awful. I am also terrified of flying which triggers my anxiety as well; however, that particular anxiety is kind of in it’s own category and we can cover that another time. 

So how did I get better? After about my fourth anxiety attack I went to go see a medical professional (a psychiatrist) to get help. I went to one that not only prescribed me medicine, but he did a very good job about walking me through what I was experiencing and better understanding, from a textbook standpoint,  my anxiety. I expressed to him my desire to not just take medicine to kick the anxiety so he prescribed me some anti-anxiety meds to take only “as needed”. This helped me for quite sometime. I found myself probably taking the meds 1-2 times per month and the rest of the month feeling okay. However, this only lasted for about a year like this. I thought I had hit rock bottom before, but I had an anxiety attack series last October that rocked my world. I was so upset because I thought I had made such progress but something took over me, again, and I was in such a bad state that I was having to take my medicine every 6 hours for about a week just to keep it at bay. Yes, it was that bad. This is when I knew things had to change. 

It’s been a long journey to get where I am today and I am sure I will continue to have my ups and downs. But if you are in the place where I was before, just know you can get better. You just have to do a lot of self care to do so, in my opinion. Everyone is different and there are so many different forms of anxiety, but I will share with you what worked for me. I am no medical expert, nor do I claim to be but I want to share my journey to good mental health with you so that you know you are not alone and so that maybe a little bit of what has worked for me may help you if you, too, struggle with anxiety disorder.

First off, the most important thing you can do is stop and face the fact that you have anxiety. Once you do that, it’s time to start doing a little self care here. Self care does not consist of sipping on wine and taking a pill. I found that this method is only helpful for that night but the next day your anxiety is back and sometimes even worse. You need to dig deeper than that. As a mom, I realized I was taking care of everyone but kinda forgot to take care of me in the mix. So I stopped and started to take care of myself, too. It’s made me feel SO much better and honestly, it’s made me a better mom, too. 

My psychiatrist had mentioned to me that yoga and/or any type of meditative practice tends to really help with anxiety. I am fortunate enough to have a lifelong friend of mine who is an extremely talented yoga instructor, massage therapist, healer… you name it. I called her immediately and booked a private session with her. She said we were going to start doing a type of yoga that I’d probably never even heard of and that was nothing like your traditional yoga classes called Pranayama Yoga, which focuses on breath work. I have found this to be the most helpful with my anxiety and to this day I still practice pranayama yoga at least once a week. If you try this, you have to stick with it. Do it at least once a week and dedicate yourself to the practice and I promise you’ll see results. 

Other than Pranayama yoga, I’d say the most important change that I made was to start eating clean and stop drinking so much alcohol. I am a big believer in the whole concept that your gut-health is connected to your mental-health. I can speak from many experiences and experiments I’ve done with myself that when your body is clean, your mind is much more clear. I mentioned before that I had hit rock bottom last October and when I wanted to turn my life around I decided to do a round of whole30 to just detox and reset my body and mind. I used to go to a glass of wine to help relax me at night and while it does help while your drinking that glass of wine, the anxiety just comes right back up when you wake up tomorrow. It’s just a pacifier, a temporary fix. I still drink my wine today, don’t get me wrong, I just don’t during the weeknights when it’s not necessary. I save it for weekends and special occasions. I also find that when I eat a lot of sugar it gets my anxiety going, so I try to avoid sugar for the most part, too. If you are struggling with anxiety and have never completed a round of Whole30, I recommend you looking into it and seeing if you think it might be something that could help you. 

Another thing that really helped me, which this totally isn’t for everyone, is a book that I read called Many Lives, Many Masters  by Dr. Brian Weiss. It isn’t for the close minded type, but I found the story not only captivating, but Dr. Weiss’s perspectives opened my mind up in new ways that made my a better person and helped me with my anxiety quite a bit.

Other little things that I do when I am feeling anxious:

  • Read a book at night. It’s a great healthy distraction and get’s you away from screens. It helps take my mind to another place, rather than staying in anxious mode. Follow my GoodReads account to see what I’m reading and what I’ve read in the past and loved.
  • Take a hot bubble bath. I literally take a hot bath every single night to just calm me after my day and help me relax before bedtime. Warm water provides your entire body with a level of relaxation that can be incredibly beneficial for reducing some of the anxiety symptoms. 
  • Go on a walk.  Sometimes, when I get into anxious mode the best way of breaking that cycle is giving my brain a healthy distraction and I find that being outdoors and walking it off helps so much.
  • Narayan Balm. I tend to carry a lot of the stress in my shoulders and chest. I rub (or ask my hubby to rub) this narayan balm on my shoulders and chest. It feels so good and helps calm me down. I keep this in my purse when I fly I love it so much!
  • Do something your passionate about. The link between creativity and better mental and physical health is well established by research. Creating helps make people happier and less anxious. I used to just do this blog for fun but in the midst of my big life turn around moment I told myself… I love doing this, I am good at it. Let’s do this better and really do it right. This blog has been so healing for me and has made me such a happier, healthier person.

I am proud to say that even though I carry anti-anxiety medicine in my purse “just in case”, that I haven’t taken a pill in 9 months. Not even when I fly, which is huge for me. You guys, I am so proud of myself. If you have anxiety, I feel for you. I get it. It really sucks and it is straight up scary! But take a stand against it and do what it takes to get better. Don’t just hide from it and pacify it hoping that it will just go away. I tried this and it doesn’t just go away. So gear up, practice on how you are going to battle it the next time it comes along. It won’t stand a chance against your new, stronger sense of self. 

Everyone is different and you’ll have to work at it to find what works for you. And please note that even though I found my way out of taking medicine and found natural remedies that I am not against taking medicine if you need it. If you are in really bad shape, I encourage you to at least talk to a medical professional about your problems to find a path that works for you. 

Thanks for reading this post. It wasn’t the easiest one for me to type but I am glad I can put it out into the world in hopes that it might help at least one person not feel alone when they have anxiety. Don’t feel like you are the only one because I can assure you that you are NOT ALONE.

Please comment below if you want me to elaborate on anything I discussed in this post. I am an open book and am happy to share anything with you.

64 Comments

  • Reply
    My Non-Toxic Skincare Routine – The Defined Dish
    August 22, 2017 at 12:05 pm

    […] say… eh, 85% of the time? More or less, depending on the week that is. And we’ve talked before about how these clean eating changes in my diet have changed my life in so many wonderful ways. […]

  • Reply
    Julie Ragains
    August 11, 2017 at 6:10 pm

    Thank you for sharing your story. As we are all learning, we are definitely not alone! When my husband and I moved into our house a few years ago, we placed our couch in front of a large window in our living room. I remember every night sitting in fear that I could easily be shot in the back of the head while watching TV. It’s like, I was just trying to watch “Parks & Rec” and this is what I was thinking about? What on Earth was wrong with me?! We had to move the couch. It was scary. I went to the doctor and long story short, I found out that I had a tumor on my pituitary gland wreaking havoc on all my hormones and contributing to my anxiety. I’ve since had the tumor removed and have to take supplemental hormones. I feel better and have less what I call “the crazy thoughts”, but I live with a different anxiety now. I am now dependent on medication to survive and it terrifies me as I have always been an independent person. I’m constantly afraid something will happen, and I will be caught without my medication. It’s totally changed the way I live my life. I will definitely try some of the tips you suggested. Already ordered my Narayan Balm! I really appreciate you taking the time and care to post this as I’m sure it was not easy. I really appreciate all your content and transparency. It’s very refreshing. So thank you, again.

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 11, 2017 at 7:35 pm

      You’re most welcome and I hope you continue to focus on yourself and getting well!!

  • Reply
    Lauren Horton
    August 11, 2017 at 4:36 pm

    Thank for sharing your story! I have found that sugar contributes to my anxiety as well and I didn’t make the connection until I did my second Whole30. It never ceases to amaze me how we can heal our minds and bodies with the right foods!

  • Reply
    Leslie
    August 11, 2017 at 1:37 pm

    Thanks for sharing! I appreciate your vulnerability and hope. It’s so important to know we are not alone!

  • Reply
    Claire Koch
    August 11, 2017 at 12:07 pm

    Thanks for sharing, Alex! I am one of the most chill people on the planet, but something about having these little, perfect humans really makes anxiety flare. I also always think of terrible, fatal scenarios when anyone is out of my sight for too long, it’s totally exhausting! ?

  • Reply
    April G. Frazer
    August 10, 2017 at 4:20 pm

    Just a few verses to meditate on everyday and during these tough moments. xo

    Matthew 6 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

    Philippians 4:6 – Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

    Proverbs 12:25-Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.

    Psalms 56:3-When I am afraid, I put my trust in you

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 11, 2017 at 7:35 pm

      Thank you, April!!

  • Reply
    Stephanie
    August 10, 2017 at 5:54 am

    I’ve been doing a lot of research on anxiety lately because i get this oversensational feeling that the worst will happen. For example, I’m a Rep and on the road a ton. When I drive over an overpass connector I just get terrified of driving off. If I go under one I worry of a car launching off. When I drive by the airport (you drive under the airplanes landing/taking off) I panic that one is going to crash into me. My husband didnt get this one and thought dricing slow and saying “here it comes” was awesome and thought i was being dramatic. I cried intensely and couldn’t stop. I’m not as afraid of flying now, but when i first started it was a few months after 9/11. Any way i just would love to know where to look for ways to change my thoughts. I used to do yoga.. maybe that needs to be a bigger part of my life again. I tboroughly enjoy yours posts and stories and adore your girls! Thanks for sharing!

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 4:11 pm

      Yes, the thoughts can definitely consume you… my husband didn’t understand at first, too, and made the same mistake once!! Try reading that book, too, if you are open minded! It’s a great read!

  • Reply
    Tricia
    August 10, 2017 at 3:43 am

    Great job writing this – it’s hard to share personal things sometimes but in my experience with anxiety, just knowing that others out there were going through and/or feeling EXACTLY the same things was hugely comforting to me knowing I wasn’t alone. Just knowing what is the source of these physical symptoms was also eye opening for me because as I started recognizing those symptoms and feelings- it helped me take a step back or slow down and evaluate what I could do to help myself work through it.

  • Reply
    Cathy
    August 10, 2017 at 3:04 am

    My panic attacks hit me while I would sleep. I’d wake up with my heart racing, sweating, feeling like I wanted to crawl out of my skin. I went to the ER twice thinking I was having a heart attack. I felt nervous all the time. A kind, ER doctor recommended I go to a heart specialist and get my heart checked so next time I had a panic attack, I would know my heart was ok. I went and it really did give me peace of mind. I take a low dose of Lexapro to help with anxiety. I have tried to be off of it but the attacks usually come back. I can’t even drive over tall bridges without feeling anxious. I believe there are a lot of us out there. Thank you for sharing your story. I love reading your blog and watching your stories on Instagram!

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 4:09 pm

      I went and had a bunch of check-ups done too and it really helped me move forward with knowing that my fears weren’t realistic! I am glad you did that, too!

  • Reply
    Kaleigh
    August 10, 2017 at 2:00 am

    Grateful that you shared your story. It’s helpful for those who identify with the feelings and provides perspective for those who have loved ones with anxiety. ❤️

  • Reply
    Sara
    August 10, 2017 at 12:56 am

    Your story is EXACTLY mine! Can you share your yoga instructor? Most yoga studios I’ve tried only give me more anxiety w heat and loud music!

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 4:03 pm

      OMG.. me too. The heat makes me panic! Let me ask her if it is okay for me to share her information and I will get back to you.

  • Reply
    Valerie
    August 10, 2017 at 12:17 am

    Thanks for sharing your heart and your story. I too deal with mild (but sometimes moderate or severe) anxiety. We have similar coping methods as well. I’d love for you to talk more about your flight anxiety because that’s my biggest hurdle and I’d love to get to a place where I’m excited to fly. Ugh. It’s the worst isn’t it?

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 4:02 pm

      It really is! I am going to talk more about that in a later post. 🙂

  • Reply
    Anne
    August 10, 2017 at 12:08 am

    Really appreciate you sharing this story of your journey. I have recently had a couple of panic attacks, never had them before and not sure what triggered them but it’s comforting to hear that I am not alone and that some of your suggestions may help as I figure it out.

  • Reply
    carrie lou
    August 9, 2017 at 11:36 pm

    Thank you for sharing. I had a few years of anxiety/panic attacks that appeared only at work. I constantly worried they would occur, which then brought them on. I finally shared with a coworker (out of necessity) , whom shared she and also another coworker had attacks too (unrelated) so it definitely helped/needs to be talked about more openly. I was able to get it under control by reading books about anxiety and doing exercises telling myself that I was okay, not in a dangerous situation etc. as I did not want to rely on meds.

  • Reply
    Nicole Conner
    August 9, 2017 at 11:26 pm

    Bravo!

  • Reply
    Sabrina
    August 9, 2017 at 11:18 pm

    Thank you for sharing! I started having anxiety attacks this year and I’m learning how to deal. Would you mind talking about your fear of flying and what you do to manage your anxiety with that??

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 4:01 pm

      That is a post I plan on doing in the future… since it’s something I am still working on but I have lots of tips and tricks that will be included in the post.

  • Reply
    Chris
    August 9, 2017 at 11:05 pm

    Thank you for being so honest. Did you ever post about your flying anxiety? I had my first panic attack 5 years ago the day before leaving on a wonderful Mexico vacation. The physical symptoms were so bad I had to cancel. Heart breaking. I am terrified to fly now and also so ashamed I will let my husband and friends down again xoxo

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 4:01 pm

      Oh, I am sorry this happened to you, Chris. I haven’t yet posted about my flight anxiety, but I plan on doing a post on this at some point in the future. I recommend taking a course and learning more about aviation first! That helped me a ton.

  • Reply
    Aquanna
    August 9, 2017 at 11:00 pm

    Thank you for sharing your experience.

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 4:00 pm

      Day by day!! That is all you can do! 🙂

  • Reply
    Amy
    August 9, 2017 at 10:43 pm

    Thank you for sharing! Your story about hitting rock bottom sounds eerily similar to my own. Anxiety can be so debilitating, and I admit I take a maintenance drug to help me every day. My goal is to stop the medicine, but right now I’m just thankful for a day without an attack. Thanks for letting me know I’m not alone. ?

  • Reply
    Shelley
    August 9, 2017 at 10:35 pm

    Love the honesty in this post. Thank you! I am new to Dallas and wondering if you have a recommendation for a yoga studio? I had a favorite place in Kansas but need help locating a place here. I also have anxiety with flying and would love to continue yoga. Thank you so much! Love your posts!

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 3:59 pm

      Thanks, Shelley!! i honestly don’t have a yoga studio here that I have found and loved, I just do yoga with my personal instructor. If I find one I will certainly let you know.

  • Reply
    Tina
    August 9, 2017 at 10:09 pm

    Such a great post! One thing that always helps me when feeling that weight of “I thought I had already hit the rock bottom” or “I haven’t had an attack in so long” is knowing that even if it happens again during those times when we’re stuck in the panic, I know enough self care to open my heart to where it’s coming from, acknowledge it and not beat myself up for it happening again. I never tell myself it will never happen again. If it does, I can acknowledge, accept and face where the fear is coming from. Even if that means not being able to avoid the physical part of the attack. Being good to ourselves and letting ourselves know it’s okay to feel these things vs. fighting them is a huge part of our battles. So much gets stuck within us, both physically and mentally when trying to avoid what we feel. So relieving to honor our own feelings and face them so we can clear them out and not have them so stuck within us. When they surface I try my best to be kind and understanding to these darn feelings and fears.

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 3:58 pm

      Exactly!! accepting the fact that you have anxiety and that you are likely to have a panic attack again in the future is such a big step to being able to handle the attacks!

  • Reply
    Marisol
    August 9, 2017 at 9:39 pm

    How do you manage your anxiety when you travel? Whenever I have to travel I have anxiety since the minute I purchase my flight tickets till the day of my trip. I have to be sedated or I’ll panic once the airplane starts moving.

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 3:57 pm

      I still struggle with this the most, honestly, and I am working on it everytime I travel. I, too, get anxious when I book my flights but I’ve gotten better about it. I am going to write a post on the things that help me with flying but I’d say learning more about aviation and how planes works definitely helped me a TON so find a book or course online, or I even downloaded the app “Valk” that helped. I also the week before I travel do a meditation and literally in my head meditate on what I am doing… from driving up to the airport, boarding the plane, flying, and landing safely. Set the tone for your flight before you even go.

  • Reply
    AM
    August 9, 2017 at 9:18 pm

    Thank you so much for this post! You explained it perfectly….I am constantly worried about death and my family. Especially at nights…..nights are the worst. I never had anxiety until I had a mole the size of a pen dot removed 2 years ago and it turned out to be melanoma. Luckily it was able to be all removed, (huge scar to remind me) but that experience triggered panic attacks, inability to sleep, numbness – I had to have all sorts of scans run because they thought I had MS. I did a whole 30 after spring break and felt great! That’s when I started following you! I will try the balm you recommended and would love to try the yoga. I plan to start clean eating using lots of your recipes I’ve saved again soon. Thank you again for your words and your blog!! Your girls are the sweetest and thank you for sharing everything you do!

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 3:54 pm

      I am glad you connected to the post and I hope you enjoy the recipes you tagged!! Clean eating helps SO much. I feel like getting those scans and just running tests is a good idea for people with anxiety because it just helps you move forward and realize that its just anxiety, not a health scare. I did the same thing and it really helped me move forward!

  • Reply
    Shirley Simpson
    August 9, 2017 at 8:31 pm

    Great post Alex and so similar to my story…scarily similar! Have you read Dr Kelly Brogan? ( holistic phychiatrist) She’s amazing….also, for the flying….I’m the same. A terrified flyer for years. I did an online course by ex Pan Am Catain Tom Bunn, who has the SOAR programme. Works on the mind which is the only thing that has worked for me. ( a control freak…’who’s flying this plane? Are they suicidal? What was that noise? There’s a terrorist! ‘Etc) I did an AirNew Zealand fear of flying course ( I live in NZ) and it did nothing, but Captian Toms one really works! Check it out X

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 3:52 pm

      I’ve never read that or taken a coarse… thanks for the suggestions I will totally check that out!!

  • Reply
    Raye-Lynn
    August 9, 2017 at 8:28 pm

    You have no idea how much it means that you have taken time out to write this post. I remember in one of your posts or IG stories you said you did yoga once a week and that it was a “therapy session”. As a person suffering from anxiety too, I felt that you posting that made me feel like I was not alone, and that a person can be okay and get better. I have since learned that many people suffer from it and reaching out to friends and loved one can literally save your life. I too see a therapist to try to overcome it. I have not and do not want to take medicine but at least I know it’s out there if it ever comes to that. I’m so sorry that you too have anxiety, but it really does help to know we are not alone. p.s. I was also told that yoga and meditation help.

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 12:14 pm

      I think opening up to others about your struggles is SO important and being honest with yourself that you have them is of upmost importance to get better!! Glad you enjoyed this post!

  • Reply
    Alysia
    August 9, 2017 at 8:26 pm

    What a wonderful and empowering post! Thank you for normalizing something that many of us struggle with on the daily! X

  • Reply
    Jill
    August 9, 2017 at 8:23 pm

    This is such a great read! I have dealt with anxiety since college and have been on and off medications. I am curious to know what medication that you take (when needed) since I have had trouble finding the right one. I prefer an “as needed” one since I’ve had not so great side effects from the everyday ones and I’m always curious to know what works for others.

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 12:13 pm

      Diazepam is what I was prescribed. I’d definitely discuss with your doc to see if it might be for you.

  • Reply
    Catherine Brown
    August 9, 2017 at 8:21 pm

    Thank you for the great post. I have learned my anxiety is directly related to hormones and also improves greatly with self case. I like a lot of your ideas!

  • Reply
    Laura
    August 9, 2017 at 8:20 pm

    Thank you so much for sharing this!

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 12:12 pm

      You’re welcome… and taking it day by day and focusing on getting well is sooo important! Best of luck to you!

  • Reply
    Malisa
    August 9, 2017 at 7:54 pm

    I have the exact same fears about being killed, my kids being tortured or killed or my husband dying. It is awful, and so, so scary! I only got it after my second baby was born, and went to see a therapist to work on it. I never went on medication, but definitely agree that eating clean, staying away from screens (and the news) and staying active do help. I still get scared at home when my husband isn’t around, so I really have to amp up my rituals on those nights, but I do feel that I’ve gotten way better. Thanks so much for sharing your story!

  • Reply
    Melissa
    August 9, 2017 at 7:27 pm

    Thank you so much for sharing! What you described is very similar to things I’ve experienced myself. Glad to hear you’re in a better place! I’m going to try your tips and tricks ????

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 11:53 am

      Glad you liked the post, and best of luck to you!!

  • Reply
    Dawn
    August 9, 2017 at 7:24 pm

    Thank you for your humble honesty. My anxiety was the worse when I was still in my “party girl” alcohol days. Since my first whole30 and changing my lifestyle; I’m able to keep it at bay. I do know my triggers and it’s important to really learn how our bodies react to stressors and find healthy ways to cope! Love your blog!

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 11:53 am

      Thank you, Dawn! Yes, I realized my party girl mode had to be turned down on low when I go out these days. It’s just not worth it to me at this time in my life!

  • Reply
    Kait
    August 9, 2017 at 7:06 pm

    ❤️

  • Reply
    Annie Baker
    August 9, 2017 at 6:58 pm

    I loved reading this!! Acknowledging your anxiety for what it is can be the hardest part. Cooking and baking by myself is one of my favorite ways to calm my anxiety. Just follow the recipe and look at all the colors of the food! I love that you use yoga. I’ve been meditating every day using an app on my phone and it’s been life changing. Sharing our strategies is how we all start feeling better. ❤️

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 11:52 am

      I agree, and cooking is sooooo healing when your feeling anxious! I do the same. It’s a great, healthy distraction instead of turning to the wine!

  • Reply
    Jodie
    August 9, 2017 at 6:17 pm

    Alex, thank you for sharing your personal journey today. I just left the doctors office yesterday with a prescription for anxiety meds. I have had three panic attacks this year and feel fearful that more will happen. Those close to me asked me to describe what I mean by “anxiety” and what has brought it on in my mid 40’s. Your description says it best, fear of imminent death, for no good reason. And for me stresses of life and probably hormones have played the biggest roles. Thank you for confirming some of the things I’m trying to overcome anxiety with: yoga (for some reason the breathing techniques do help), eating clean, and taking meds if necessary. Reading your blog has given me a dose of hope, thank you.
    Ps. I made your turkey and black bean taquitos Monday night and they were a hit!

    • Reply
      Alex
      August 10, 2017 at 11:51 am

      The good thing is you know now what you have and even though there will likely be more anxiety attacks in the future, you can be ready for them. 🙂 I hope you take some time for yourself each day to manage it and yes, hormones are definitely a driving factor for my anxiety, also! ahh… being a woman can be so tough!!! Best of luck to you!

  • Reply
    Lauren B
    August 9, 2017 at 5:13 pm

    Thank you so much for writing this.

  • Reply
    Stephany
    August 9, 2017 at 5:01 pm

    I have dealt with anxiety my whole life but it has been so much worse after having children! It’s definitely a work in progress to try and overcome!

  • Reply
    Megan
    August 9, 2017 at 4:39 pm

    Great read! Thank you for sharing your story.

  • Reply
    Rachel
    August 9, 2017 at 4:37 pm

    Oh man, you just described my life after having a child. I thought I was going crazy the first time it happened. It’s always so good to know you aren’t alone. Thank you for pouring your heart out.

  • Reply
    Terryanne
    August 9, 2017 at 4:37 pm

    Thank you for sharing!! It is not easy to put yourself out there in a vulnerable place so that shows how improvedyour mental health has become!! Best wishes on your journey!!!

  • Reply
    Kerri Percy
    August 9, 2017 at 4:33 pm

    Thanks Alex for sharing your story! I have battled anxiety since college, my first attack came along with an illness, as I was walking upstairs to my painting class, my legs stopped working, my heart was palpitating and I was light headed. I thought I was having a heart attack. It was so bad I had to drop all my classes except one for a whole semester, I was in bed for a week. Mine hit at totally unexpected times: cooking dinner, at work, during a photo session, the list goes on. I once was photographing a wedding and had to sit down for 20 min. Thankful for understanding bride and groom.

    I found out I was having 2 different types of anxiety attacks- a physical anxiety where my body is reacting instead of my brain, and freezes up, feels like a heart attack or stroke. The other kind is the type of anxiety in my head- thoughts of uselessness, motivation to do anything is gone, and I want to sleep my life away. I am on meds for anxiety, but I agree, there’s much more than meds; we need self care. I would say 90% of women need some sort of self-care routine to avoid facing anxiety at some point, in some manner.

  • Reply
    Hope
    August 9, 2017 at 4:29 pm

    Thank you for sharing! I’ve dealt with (mild) postpartum anxiety and am inspired by your life changes.

  • Reply
    Charlotte
    August 9, 2017 at 3:53 pm

    Thank you so much for this!

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