To tense to eat because of anxiety HELP

[crimson_petrichor]

Hi all, it's been quite some time since I've posted here. My emet and anxiety is driving me up the wall lately.
Last night I was to anxious to eat dinner, I took some Valium and went to bed. This morning I'm hungry but still really anxious about eating. I'm scared more of panicking I think than any bugs or fp. I know that if I eat I will probably feel better. But I'm so tense and anxious. I feel like I can't swallow. Does anyone have any tips?

[sarahcox]

Take some real deep breaths....google alternating nostril breathing...it is very very effective. Also, trying to picture the panic leaving your body and relax every muscle in your body. I have been doing the alternating nostril breathing and it was worked for me. I also do it at night to help fall asleep ( there is bit of a technique for that). I suggest googling it! Hope that helps, im here if you need more help

[Mamafear]

Hi, the advice above is perfect! So tenderly delivered too! I can only add that when I'm feeling very vulnerable/anxious, my doc advised me to suck on a sweet (or a teaspoon upside down). She said it works nearly every time because it reminds our subconcious of being an infant and completely cocooned and protected. I tried the sweet but not the spoon one. Wrap yourself up in a blanket and try to rest. Hope you feel better soon.

[k10]

I feel like that a lot, and I usually suck on a hard candy... it helps with the swallowing and is distracting from the anxiety.

[Mischief]

Yeah you just need something to break the anxiety cycle, usually involving distraction. Try finding something really lovely to distract you, like looking at a lovely picture of a cute puppy! or shopping for nice handbags on ebay! Just kidding, but the more treat-making the distraction usually the better for me these days. I bet a puzzle would work too, or crochetting! its so addictive in a weird RSI type of way. Probably not the best if trying to distract whilst attempting to sleep.