Seeking Advice Before My Doctor's Appointment: Ongoing Anxiety Issues
Greetings everyone, I'm reaching out as I prepare to schedule an appointment with my general practitioner in London. I would value any insights or advice that you might have on my situation. At 21 years old, I’m a male who has been trapped in a cycle of anxiety from the moment I rise until I drift off to sleep each night. My focus and memory occasionally falter, but the most distressing physical manifestations include excessive sweating, a racing heart, difficulty breathing, and tightness in my chest, which often leads to discomfort. Maintaining employment has become particularly challenging, as most workplaces expect a level of calmness and self-assurance that I find difficult to project. Social gatherings are something I tend to steer clear of when I can. While my sleep patterns are generally acceptable, there have been instances where rest has eluded me. I've experimented with various antidepressant medications, such as citalopram, mirtazapine, sertraline, and escitalopram, as well as some others I can't recall. Unfortunately, none have yielded positive results despite adhering to the prescribed duration for each. Additionally, I've explored several therapy modalities, including person-centred therapy, play therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), but these approaches have also fallen short over extended periods. Although I understand the underlying causes of my persistent anxiety and have devised a long-term plan to address them—one that involves securing stable housing and employment—my inability to keep a job due to overwhelming anxiety, diminished self-esteem, and troubling physical symptoms, like consistent sweating (which contributes to personal discomfort) and heart palpitations, hinders my progress. I intend to convey all these concerns during my upcoming consultation. However, I fear that I will simply be met with another prescription for yet another antidepressant and the standard advice to return after several weeks. This cycle has continued for nearly two years, and I am feeling entirely disheartened. What I truly hope for is a temporary solution to alleviate the physical symptoms so I can function in my daily life and work toward a more enduring fix for this significant challenge I face. If you’ve taken the time to read through my post, I would be extremely grateful for your perspective, regardless of your qualifications. Thank you for your time!
Answers (1)
2/14/2026, 9:40:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you're feeling overwhelmed by your ongoing anxiety and the challenges it presents in your daily life. Your experiences with various medications and therapies can indeed be disheartening, especially when relief seems just out of reach. Here are some important points to consider for your upcoming appointment and actions you can take in the meantime.
Key Points:
- Recognition of Symptoms: Your physical symptoms, including sweating, a racing heart, and tightness in your chest, are significant and should be addressed urgently.
- Communication with Your Doctor: Being open about your experiences with medications and therapies can help your doctor tailor a more effective treatment plan.
Explanation:
Anxiety can manifest in various ways, including both emotional and physical symptoms. It’s common for individuals dealing with chronic anxiety to feel stuck, especially when previous treatments haven’t led to improvement. It’s good that you’re preparing to discuss your complete history with your doctor, as a holistic understanding is crucial for creating a personalized plan.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Diary: Before your doctor’s appointment, record your symptoms. Note when they occur, their intensity, any triggers you can identify, and how they affect your daily life. This will provide your doctor with concrete examples to consider beyond just medication.
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Physical Activity: Engage in regular, moderate exercise, such as walking, yoga, or swimming. Exercise releases endorphins, which can help improve mood and reduce anxiety symptoms.
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Mindfulness Techniques: Incorporate mindfulness practices such as deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation. These can help mitigate some physical symptoms of anxiety when they arise.
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Discuss Alternatives: When you meet with your doctor, express your concerns about another prescription. Ask if there are non-pharmacological treatments available, such as mindfulness-based therapies, group therapy, or even complementary approaches like acupuncture or nutritional counseling.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Ensure you're practicing good sleep hygiene and nutrition, as these can significantly impact anxiety levels. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, particularly before bedtime, and aim for a balanced diet that supports overall well-being.
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Consider Support Groups: Look for local or online support groups where you can connect with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences can provide relief and new coping strategies.
Reassurance:
It’s completely valid to seek change and desire a better quality of life. Every individual's journey with anxiety is unique, and it's okay to explore different options until you find what works best for you. Take small, actionable steps, and remember that progress is often gradual. Your plan to communicate your feelings and experiences with your doctor is a strong step towards finding the support you need.
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