I have come so far, but see that much of what we are learning is a long process, and PATIENCE is the key.

I have had a tough week, but I'm using my skills and starting to feel better. One of the things I'm learning, and I hope will become more comfortable to me is that I will need to keep using my skills for the long term. THe reason i started feeling bad again is that I was thinking and acting in an axious way again, it makes perfect sense. I wanted to be able to push myself hard, not rest, eat too much sugar, help everyone I know, allow a few negative thoughts in, and still expect to feel good! It's a long way to finding balance, I think. I realize that I need to be committed to eating haelthy, thinking healthy- writing down thought replcements-, lowering my expectations,etc for life because of who I am, and that's not a bad thing. I was also feeling like ok, I'll get through this growth spurt, then I'll always do what it takes to avoid anxiety again. that is a lot of pressure and perfectionistic. one of the things Lucinda says is how we need to get more comfortable living in an imperfect world, rather than trying to be perfect. I am accepting that I will ahve challenging days along the way, and I don't need to get down about it. I have the skills to cope.

Hi Mint,
Good for you. I recently came to the same realization. We need alot of patience, and understanding that this is something we will have to deal with , and that we can deal with it!!! It gets frustrating, and sometimes a little depressing to know we have to deal with it, but on the bright side at least we know HOW to deal with it! Good luck to you...take care of you, and I'm proud of you!
Judy

Hi Mintflower!

Good for you!!!
I think the lightbulb went off for me, when Lucinda differentiates the meaning of recovery. To her recovery is no longer being afraid of anxiety, no longer having panic attacks, and not using any medication. Then she states that it doesn't mean we will no longer have anxiety. Yes, she still HAS anxiety! However, it is REAL!

Peace and Bright Blessings!
*-*-*-*Diane*-*-*-*

Mint Flower,

Amen!

Reena