I am on lesson 15 and I am finding it a little scary that the program is ending. I keep getting these what-if's about my anxiety coming back. I keep telling myself that it won't so that helps a little. I just encountered a growth spurt yesterday when I was walking the Race For the Cure when I began to experience some panicky feelings...I don't like to excercise because I feel like it enhances my panic feelings...Is anyone else having issues with the last tape? Sometimes I think it would be much easier if I could meet someone personally who has anxiety, if anyone lives in Colorado let me know!

I experienced the same feeings when I was finished with the program. I worried that the old me would return. I have to be honest. It hasn't been easy. I have to work everyday at keeping anxiety under control, but the panic attacks are gone, which was my big problem. Congratulations on completing the program, and good luck! And remember, you will have growth spurts, but it's all part of the healing.

AnnieG

Hey ...you just keep using those skill and it WILL pass. I have been off of it for 3 months. It took 2 months to really get used to being off of it. Just remeber...you will get over the nervousness. You have to change the way you think. Be more positive.. happiness is a present attitude, not a futer condition. I had to look and find happiness in anything I looked at. It was wierd at first...then all of a sudden its working! I feel like a million bucks right now...3 months ago I was you. try to stay busy for the next few months. Do Not just sit around on your free time. Go out with freinds...find somthing that make you laugh! Hoep this helps.

Jamie:

I just finished the program the other day and I have already had a growth spurt.. I am afraid of being off of the program and I too am what if'ing.. We just have to deal our nervousness and tell ourselves that it is all a part of the recovery process..

I think the fear of the anxiety returning is the hardest part of recovery. The reality is you will probably have "Growth Spurts" on and off for quite awhile (sometimes they pop up even after years of recovery), so expect it. No big thang, you know what it is and how to deal with it now, so don't let it freak you out. Yeah, it's disappointing and a pain, but just accept it and move on...It's all part of the healing process. I believe these "spurts" are a sign that there is an area that still needs work. When I have a growth spurt, I review all of my material and techniques, and flood myself with positive affirmations. With each growth spurt I feel I get a little stronger and wiser. Now I recoginize what some of my triggers are and I am better at identifing them.

The good news is that you're never back a square one. Once you learn the way out, you can never completely forget it again! You may have to be reminded here and there, but you will always find your way...

Trust the process.

Peace,
K

Hi-I have been out of the program for a couple of years and true you never go back to square one.Yes I have had many growth spurts and even resentized but the difference is that after the program you are able to figure out what is wrong and apply all those wonderful skills. When my brain would get bogged down I would begin jounalling and sure enough I would see what I was doing wrong like perhaps my expectations were way out of line or perhaps I was full of negative thoughts. When I finally learned to recognize my symtoms of stress and stresors it was much easier as well cause then I know - Ok time to slow down and take a break and get my rest or perhaps I was eating too many sweets etc. Yes we all have down times, yes there is always going to be anxiety producing situations in life but with the skills from the program we are able to handle everything so much better. So congratulations on finishing the program and remember to give yourself permission to feel what you are feeling. Timber