I lost my 94 year old mother in the summer, quite unexpectedly. As an only child I coped okay arranging the funeral etc in August, but it’s now I’m experiencing problems.
My sleep, which wasn’t great beforehand, is atrocious now - only getting around 4-5 hours per night and because of the chronic lack of sleep I’m very anxious and not coping well at work - I’m just managing.
But, when I get the panicky moments, it’s not my mother’s death that seems to affect me - it’sy dreadful work situation. I’m in a part time job I loathe with a passion but I have to do it for money whilst I set up my fledgling business.
I’m having what I think are mild panic attacks and I’m linking the anxiety to the bad sleep.
Am I right in thinking that the anxiety hooked onto something else is really a reaction to my mother’s death.
Has anybody else experienced this please?
Hi lost both my parents within 12 month my mum dies this August!
I have developed extreme anxiety around returning to work as my job is stressful! I have started antidepressants and cannot contemplate work right now!
U have done amazing to go back to work but I totally understand how you are feeling!
Take care of yourself and be kind listen to what your mind and body are telling you xxx
Thank you so much. I’m beginning to realise I might need to go on anti depressants. I have taken them before for other issues and know that they do help, but I’m very reluctant to do so. I’ll leave it for another week or so - I’m trying lots of different other things - exercising more and watching what I eat etc - and socialising lots. But thank you for your kind response - it brought a lump to my throat. And sending you healing and strengthening vibes. xxx
I’m sorry you’re going through this, but you need to know this is a normal reaction. If you Google it you’ll get more information. But it’s a reaction to the shock and stress of losing your mum. Anxiety just ramps up and you can be anxious about anything and everything as a result. I’ve got it too, and it’s tough.
You are doing the right things, I’d add in breathing exercises and meditation. Have you looked into grief counselling? It helped me to have someone reassure me that what I was experiencing was part of the grief process.
It sucks, but best to go through it and try eventually to learn to accept it. AD’s can help too, by taking the edge off.
Best wishes
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