Do I have an anxiety disorder?!
Question:
Do I have an anxiety disorder?
Here's the thing: I worry. Constantly and about everything. I worry about the weather, my cats, my friends, if someone is mad at me or not, the future, money.... sometimes completely pointless things, like the end of the world or making a phone call. I have a hard time enjoying myself during good times because I'm usually worried (and almost certain) that something bad will happen to ruin the experience. It's almost as if I'm afraid to look forward to anything, lest my hopes be squashed. Almost like I'm afraid if I *don't* worry, then something awful is bound to happen. I know its not logical. This worrying interferes with my life and my ability to be happy. I worry so much that I get to the point of obsessing over things- I'll worry myself sick, I'll get depressed and stay in bed all day. People here brush it off as a quirk, but I'm unhappy. I can't afford a Psychiatrist... would insurance pay for it? Any advice would be most appreciated!
Answers:
I'm not a psychology professional, but I am recovering from an anxiety disorder myself, and it sounds like you've got it bad.
You say you can't afford a psychiatrist, but I say you can't afford NOT to go. If you want to know if your insurance covers it or not, either read your policy or call your insurance company.
If you're not covered or are minimally covered, you might see if your local city or county government provides mental health care on a sliding scale based on income. That's what I did.
You probably won't need to see a psychiatrist on a regular basis. A psychologist or a psychiatric social worker would be qualified to provide you with therapy. The psychiatrist is just for prescribing drugs (if that becomes necessary) and monitoring your progress with them.
As for the drugs, don't get all worried about them like I did. I dreaded taking anything at first, but once I agreed to take Zoloft, things improved dramatically. Drugs or not, things will improve for you dramatically too if you just take the plunge and get the help you need. You'll be glad you did.