I can't get out much

If it's not the fatigue from the chemo, it's my panic attacks which have stopped me from going outside. My G.P. has been trying to get me to do the CBT breathing exercises to help with the anxiety but they don't help much.

It's depressing; it seems that the only way I can get to places a few miles away is by taxi. I used to be able to walk to and back from these places with no problems at all.

So there are two issues: my physical health and my mental health. And I can't seem to be able to do anything about either. My weight, whilst not greatly so, is up although I try and eat healthily. I make sure I eat plenty of fruit and salads and don't eat crisps or chocolate.

What would you do in my place? It hasn't made me depressed, just a little gloomy.

Re: I can't get out much

Get a dog. I don't say that flippantly. I suffered fro depression too. Mine did more, much more, for me than any therapist.

Re: I can't get out much

I'd love a dog but worry what would happen to it if I had to go into hospital again; it's a real possibility given my past.

Same goes for a cat and I do like animals.

Re: I can't get out much

Getting a dog whilst unwell is not something I would recommend, if Ffosse’s situation is not ideal. I don’t have terrific health myself, and used to come down with every virus going, but they are a tie and if mine is anything to go by, can be demanding and want to be with you 24/7.

I love mine dearly, but took a long time researching and getting it right. I think the same would go for any pet, as they all need full time care or maintenance. Even a tank full of fish.

So please think carefully before either getting a pet, or suggesting it.

I wish you well, Ffosse.

Re: I can't get out much

No, I wouldn't get a pet for the reasons you list.

I've got a neighbour whose cat I can stroke.

Re: I can't get out much

I suppose my circumstances differ from yours. I was in and out of hospital a few times and six weeks of radiotherapy. My dear wife looked after Max and we we have a kindly neighbour who dog sits if we need to be away for a while.

But mostly he goes with us almost everywhere.

Re: I can't get out much

Ffosse.....I know it's easy for me to say but this too will pass.

It's of no surprise you're having panic attacks, I know what they feel like, but you've got to give it time. And in the meantime take your meds, get out as much as you can even if it does mean taking a taxi (being stuck indoors just makes you brood) and don't beat yourself up. You're allowed to feel crap, you're allowed to feel overwhelmed.

I was having panic attacks earlier in the year and I found occupying my mind to be the greatest help, followed by getting out and about. I know the latter is nigh on impossible for you under your own steam but please try to do a little bit. All this to do with panic attacks and mental health definitely affects you physically, you've just got to take it one day at a time.

Re: I can't get out much

Thanks for that, Nicol, I know I should try a little each day. I did get out briefly yesterday to a local shop but was pretty anxious, worrying about whether I would panic or not. Then I ask myself what has happened to me after all the panic attacks I've had in the past?

Nothing, my heart has slowed down and I've gone back to normal. It's just so hard to be positive sometimes.

Re: I can't get out much

All the time you were ill and undergoing treatment it was almost like you were holding your breath. Now you've come out the other side that wall in your brain that was holding all the bad thoughts at bay has fallen down and it's all catching up with you. It's almost like PTSD.

As I said before, give it time, it will pass. Don't worry about your weight, just keep yourself as fit as you can and allow yourself some leeway, you're not Superman, you can only do your best.

Re: I can't get out much

Sorry Ffosse, but I totally agree with Jazzi.

I think you only will add to your troubles at the mo.