Medical Monday

I woke up early this morning, to try to avoid the hustle and bustle of the first day of school. The alarm went off and I rubbed my eyes. I counted the hours of sleep that I have gotten over the last 3 days and was not surprised when I could use one hand to this.

Do you ever find yourself so completely overwhelmed by things that you have no real control over? I do this to myself all the time and often wonder if I am normal, or just totally nuts.

I lay awake at night (tv usually on) and think about things...anything from lost credit cards, crashed computers, conversations I had during the day...to things like if I remembered to lock the front door. It drives me nuts, but I can't seem to "fix" this.

I'm a researcher by nature, so I took to the Internet and found some really interesting articles relating progressive disorders, to anxiety. I found comfort in that I am NOT nuts, and that other people struggle with the same things.

Those who are diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis, or similar disorders that affect nervous system are twice as likely to suffer from anxiety than those who do not have a condition. That's A LOT of people dealing with overwhelming feelings of fear and hopelessness.

The thing that helps me with my anxiety, is to find some kind of outlet for the feelings I am having. Things that help me are; to journal, to go for a walk, or to call a friend, who won't mind if you "whine" to them. =)

If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety, please know that you are not alone. Some signs or symptoms of anxiety may include:

*Uncontrollable or Obsessive thoughts
*Overwhelming feelings of panic or fear
*Nausea, Sweating, Muscle Tension and other uncomfortable physical reactions

Dealing with a diagnoses of Neurofibromatosis alone can bring on tremendous fear and anxiety. I know that the first time I heard my child being diagnosed, I felt like I was the only one in the world, dealing with this dreaded disorder.

But once I reached out (blogging for example) It helped me, 1)Understand and Research NF, 2)Build some amazing friendships and most importantly 3) Realize that I am NOT alone.

If you or someone you know is dealing with anxiety, please reach out for help. Chances are, when you do reach out, you will find an unbelievable sense of relief.

*Please note....I am NOT a doctor. I talk from what I experience, and what works for me. Seeking help from a medical professional is ALWAYS first.