30 Women Get Real About What It's Like to Live With Anxiety—And How They Cope

Health

21."I was diagnosed with PTSD after surviving the World Series earthquake of 1989. Many people don't understand that PTSD is a type of anxiety disorder and it feels just as scary. Because of my terrifying experience, I now have several unreasonable fears involving weather and transportation. Sweating, dizziness, and hyperventilating are the most common ways it shows."—Kim T., 49, Lakeville, MN

22."Last spring I was struggling with depression, anger, and anxiety stemming from my job. I prayed about it, and struggled with it, and had others pray for me as well. The anxiety was debilitating. Some days I had to take time off from work, and some days I would just cry and hyperventilate. Finally, I realized I had to make a conscious decision to change my circumstances and quit my job. It was a nerve-wracking experience but I feel so much better now, and I learned it's important to let go and let God handle any and all circumstances that you really don't have any control over."—Sarah R, 34, Lunenburg, MA

23."For me, managing my stress and anxiety is a perpetual process of self-awareness, having a full toolbox for issue management, and a long-term commitment to self-care. Breathing techniques, herbal teas, tinctures (particularly adaptogens, and kava kava for anxiety attacks), meditation and mindfulness, CBT, acupuncture, and stretching all help me. I even have apps that remind me throughout the day to do various things like take my supplements, meditate for a few minutes, or use acupressure balls to roll out my back. This system helps me so I don't forget to take care of myself first."—Charlene M., 39, Maple Valley, WA

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