When anxiety was taking over my life, you helped me through

DEAR DEIDRE: Anxiety left me with toilet troubles, which made me too anxious to go out.

I was terrified I’d have an accident in public and if I had to go anywhere, I’d take some Imodium first. 

I’m 28. I lost my job and then had a breakdown, which left me with severe anxiety and tummy problems. 

Life felt very bleak. I couldn’t see how I’d ever be able to return to work or have another relationship.

You told me I needed to deal with the root cause of my anxieties, rather than taking Imodium for physical symptoms – which wouldn’t be good for me long term as it can cause heart problems. 

You suggested I ask my GP to refer me for counselling, and gave me your support packs about Anxiety and Finding Work. 

Your support packs were so helpful.

I took your advice about stopping the Imodium and started to tackle my anxiety, making myself take small journeys until it felt less frightening to be out.

I’ve now even had a few job interviews and feel like I’m getting back to being myself again.

DEIDRE SAYS: People underestimate the power of anxiety. 

Well done on beginning to conquer it. I do hope you will be back at work soon.