"Anxiety"

I have been suffering from anxiety most of my life. I have been receiving medication for anxiety and depression for years but they just made me feel drowsy. Over the last few years my anxiety was so bad that it severely affected my life, the ability to work, socialise and form bonds with friends and family. I felt anxious about everything, I was waking up feeling sick every day and it felt like this feeling of hopelessness is never going to go away.

I have been referred to Hownslow IAPT via my GP. I had a telephone interview and it was suggested to me to go to individual CBT sessions with a CBT therapist. The waiting list was about 6 months but I got my first appointment after 3 months. The therapist was very patient and understanding. I was even anxious about coming to the sessions, but after a while I was looking forward to each week,  We have developed a map of main issues and plan on how we are going to address it. I was conducting experiments every day and I did things I never thought I would do! With each day I felt more confident in facing my fears. My treatment changed as we went along, and I really appreciated the flexibility and patience of my therapist during my treatment. I still have a long way to go, but what I have learned here helped me cope with my fears and gave me my confidence back.

I had no idea these services are available to people and I feel reassured knowing that I can get back anytime I want! I am so grateful to my therapist, Hounlow IAPT, my GP and everyone involved in my treatment. If there are people like me that have lost all hope and they are struggling with anxiety, refer your self here. It is OK to ask for help and there are many services available to suit anyone's needs. I am ever so grateful to my therapist and people at Hounslow IAPT, thank you from the bottom of my heart.