Feeling our Feelings

In recovery we are told to try not to stuff our feelings but try to acknowledge and release them.  Prior to recovery was unaware I had been either stuff my feelings or “tuning out” because I was overwhelmed by them.  We hear the solution “be with your feelings” and to “feel your feelings” and that is what this post explores.  I’ve learned a few strategies from those who came before me.  It is no longer just being with my feelings but about being able to understand, acknowledge, and release those feelings.

The Basics - Dealing with Anxiety and Panic Attacks

Below are brief descriptions of techniques that have helped me get my anxiety disorder under control.  I have gone from Agoraphobia and severe daily panic attacks to having some anxiety and no full blown panic attacks.  The information below is from a variety of different sources: courses, workshops, books (listed below), doctors and peers with the same issue.  Anxiety is one of those issues that I have dealt with all of my life.  I have learned to keep it under control by using positive self-talk, nutrition and exercise, grounding techniques including breath control, mindfulness meditation, self-care, group or one-on-one counselling and finally non-narcotic medication from my doctor.

1. Self-talk is something that takes time to work on and will never be perfect.  The beginning stages of trying to get panic attacks under control would include “talking yourself down”.  When I feel a panic attack coming on rather than fighting it or buying into I ride it out.  I tell myself soothing things, that I will be ok, I can deal with this, there is peace in this very second, etc.

2. Nutrition includes eliminating any and all stimulants to begin with; it’s an easy fix with a lot of benefit.  Obvious items I removed from my lifestyle were coffee, caffeinated pop, chocolate, smoking, alcohol and drugs.  Items I limited in my diet were simple carbohydrates and sugar. I increased green leafy veggies and fruit.  Everyone is different and we know when we feel in balance physically. After a few months I would add in one thing - a cup of coffee or a bit of chocolate and see how I reacted.  If my anxiety is high then I just stay away from them but if I'm in a good place I have been able to go back to them.

 Daily physical activity such as yoga or walking can release excess hormones, increase serotonin and energy and help with sleeping.  But never in access because then it just backfires. These were all suggestions from a Psychologist who is an anxiety expert.