Big Boys Do Cry: Navigating Anxiety

Last night, i had an anxiety attack. The first i’ve had in a very long time and the first time i’ve needed to take my anxiety tablets. I’m unsure what triggered it, was it through stress of trying to being up to date with work before leaving on holiday, final packing and making sure i have everything, getting a haircut, two of our dogs having a fight and panicking if it happens while away. All of the above. Yes, i overthink everything.

Initially i felt fine, then decided to go to bed, went to the bathroom and started to uncontrollably sob, i couldn’t understand why, by the time i got to my bedroom a matter of 8ft this turned into tight chest, tears, and hyperventilating.

I messaged my sister, to explain about the dogs and how i was feeling, panicking of going away. She managed to talk me round, and after 5 minutes of messages and breathing exercise I had managed to calm down.

I have been feeling great recently, excluding my xmas blip and last night. It shows mental health is a life long battle and needs more support. I won’t give in.

Honestly i am truly blessed with my family support from my mum and dad and to my younger sister who has always been more like a big sister. Protecting me, giving unconditional love and support. I can never thank my parents or her enough.

I know i am one of the lucky ones who has support to keep me going through the dark and the good.

But something my mum said today, really struck a cord. We regularly say to people struggling to ‘Reach Out’ but honestly thats far from how we feel. We can be stuck, can’t see the light or even know how to communicate. Instead we need people to ‘Reach In’ and ask that loved one or friend – are you ok? Is there anything i can help you with? This could mean the world to that person.

So please if one of your friends or family seems to be acting out of the ordinary, ask!