Anxiety 26

“You can’t just take Tylenol to deal with anxiety. Being able to be level with people, being honest about your problem – that is a huge help.”  Royce White

For those of you who get to witness my library collection, know that I love a great story.  This is how I learn, and I really enjoy reading about others who have overcome whatever and get to share their stories in this forum.  I also love listening to these stories, whether on the television or via a podcast or even those who come into my space.

As a person who has a nervous type of demeanour and possibly an undiagnosed generalised anxiety, life can be a little harrowing for me from time to time.  It does flare up from time to time, dependent upon where we are and what is going on for me. 

The start of COVID was difficult being in New Zealand and I can recall not acting like myself at this time, and the reaction of this by my husband.  Anxiety also flared up during the cancer diagnosis and journey.  Whilst this is now well behind me, I did keep a diary of my thoughts and behaviour during that time.  Added to this, my veins decided to roll and/or turn off whilst the staff were doing the required blood tests and/or treatment.  Anxiety often goes up with pain and then the whole procedure needs to recommence.

I was lucky enough to have a great treatment team and whilst the nursing staff were surprised at the level of the anxiety, they worked with me at the time.  I do recall a particular moment of them asking what my background was again!  The added stress of appearing in public without my headgear also raised some laughter (some days after the dreaded event), it was interesting to note that the team stated that I could not have too much trauma if I can laugh about it!  It is often a double-sided coin that one, as it can flip either way.

For me, being able to speak about the anxiety of life has assisted me during these times.  I often acknowledge that anxiety is present, and I feel that people are surprised to hear of this.  Yes, I can talk very well, but the anxiety is often hidden when in small groups – however, the imposter syndrome can be very prevalent at times and that adds to the anxiety.

How do you manage anxiety or stress in your life?