Anxiety and depression almost destroyed my life.

[jfortuna92]

Anxiety and depression almost destroyed my life. I had severe acne, didn't own car, and was attending community college because all the colleges I applied to denied me. Family members said I would never amount to anything. First world problems I know, but it really got to me. I felt like the biggest loser in the world. I remember I hated using bathrooms because I would have to walk by the mirror and see myself. I didn't want to live anymore. Somehow I eventually made it to a four year university and wanted to play rugby even though I was 112 pounds. Approached captain who was in one of my classes junior year and he looked at me like "da ****" and went back to playing on his phone. I was demoralized.

Brb: went from community college to just being accepted to Ivy League School
Brb: went from getting demoralized by rugby captain to being personally recruited by coach senior year
Brb: went from 112 pounds to 154 pounds in three semesters
Brb: not depressed or anxious anymore

In my opinion, depression and anxiety arise when we are unable to reach the goals we want in life. Why can't we make the change? Motivation. Where does motivation come from? Hope. Some people say, "I transformed my life because someone called me a skinny/fat/ugly/loser." That may have trigged motivation but without hope that they achieve their goals or that life would get better being called a skinny/fat/ugly/loser would have just made them more depressed.

THIS THREAD IS DESIGNED TO HELP OTHERS FIND HOPE WHO ARE IN A ROUGH PLACE

Do's: -Post motivational videos, music, quotes
-Share your story about something you overcame
-Tell people what gave you hope during your darkest times
-Ask questions to people who have made it though what you are going through
Dont's
-Disrespect others (some people in this thread may be going through a very tough time so please be sensitive)

As my offering, I have made a transformation video for you guys



We are all going to make it, let's give each other hope

[Slats7]

Cool as a Cucumber—Your Action Plan

1. Get enough sleep. Inconsistent sleep can have some serious consequences. Not only does it affect our physical health, but lack of sleep can also contribute to overall anxiety and stress. And sometimes it turns into a vicious cycle, since anxiety often leads to disruptions in sleep . Especially when feeling anxious, try to schedule a full seven to nine hours of snooze time and see what a few nights of sweet slumber do for those anxiety levels throughout the day.

2. Smile. When work has got us down, it’s a good idea to take a quick break to get some giggles on. Research suggests that laughter can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, so consider checking out a funny YouTube clip to calm those jittery nerves .

3. De-clutter the brain. Physical clutter = mental clutter. A messy workspace can make it more difficult to relax and make it seem like our work is never-ending. So take 15 minutes or so to tidy up the living space or work area, and then make a habit of keeping things clean and anxiety-free. It’ll help us think rationally, and there won’t be as much room for anxiety.

4. Express gratitude. Studies have found expressing gratitude helps reduce anxiety, especially when we’re well-rested . Start a gratitude journal to get in the mindset of appreciation, and out of the mindset of being overwhelmed.

5. Eat right. Anxiety can throw our bodies totally out of whack: Our appetite might change, or we might crave certain foods. But to give the body the support it needs, try eating more of foods that contain nutrients such as vitamin B and omega-3s, plus some healthy whole-grain carbohydrates. Studies have linked vitamin B with good mental health, and omega-3s may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety . Whole-grain carbs help regulate levels of serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter that helps us remain calm. And even though our cravings might be telling us otherwise, research suggests that eating sugary and processed foods can increase symptoms of anxiety . 15 Easy Ways to Beat Anxiety: Meditate

6. Learn to breathe. A useful tool to prevent panic attacks, the breath is also a great marker of where your anxiety level is at throughout the day. Short, shallow breaths signify stress and anxiety in the brain and body. On the flip side, consciously breathing, plus lengthening and strengthening the breath helps send signals to the brain that it’s okay to relax .

7. Meditate. By now most of us have heard that meditation is relaxing, but what scientists are also discovering is that meditation actually increases the amount of grey matter in the brain, essentially rewiring the body to stress less. A number of recent studies highlight the positive effects of meditation on anxiety, mood, and stress symptoms . Meditation is also a way to observe the brain, letting us figure out how our mind generates anxiety-provoking thoughts. And understanding the brain’s thought patterns can help create distance from those thoughts.

8. Create a vision board. If the future seems big and scary, try changing the thoughts about what lies ahead. Sometimes the mere act of setting concrete goals can take the edge off anxiety about future unknowns. Take an hour to produce a vision board that creates excitement about projects and possibilities to come. And for those who aren’t the crafty type, try making an e-vision board using Pinterest for some Pinspiration. While making the board, try using the T.H.I.N.K. tool: Is my thought true, helpful, inspirational, necessary and kind? If not, dump the thought.

9. Play around. Kids and animals seem to have an innate ability to play, without stressing about their overflowing inboxes. Until business offices give us recess breaks, we’ll have to take responsibility for our own playtime. Offer to take a friend’s dog out for a walk, or babysit for an afternoon to get out of your head and let the careless creatures lead by example.

10. Be silent. Plan for a time when you can completely disconnect. Start with increments of time that seem sustainable and doable for you, even if it’s just five minutes. That means phone off, no emails, no TV, no news, nothing. Let other people know they won’t be able to reach you so you can veg worry free. There’s some evidence that too much noise can boost our stress levels, so schedule some sacred silent time among all the ruckus of daily life. 15 Easy Ways to Beat Anxiety: Be Silent

11. Worry. Yes, we can cause ourselves to freak out, but only for a certain amount of time. When something weighs heavily on your mind, or you believe something terrible is most definitely going to occur, commit to only creating that worry for 20 minutes. Think of all the possible outcomes of the scenario, figure out some game plans, and then quit thinking about it after 20 minutes go by. Have a friend call after the allotted time has passed to avoid the temptation of going over the time limit. Or schedule some of that playtime right afterward.

12. Plan ahead. Fight anxious thoughts in advance by preparing for the day ahead. Try making a schedule or a to-do list and develop habits that increase productivity. So instead of spending 10 extra minutes every morning frantically looking for those keys, make a habit of always putting them in the same place when you come home. Lay out clothes the night before, pack a gym bag and leave it by the door, or make lunch ahead of time. Focus on how to “un-think” the anxiety-producing beliefs by prepping before they pop up.

13. Visualize anything positive. When confronted with anxious thoughts, take a moment to visualize yourself handling the situation with calm, ease, and clarity. Try not to pay attention to the current mental state; just focus on the feeling of smooth-sailing through the storm. The technique is called “guided imagery” or “guided visualization” and can help reduce feelings of stress .

14. Smell something relaxing. Try sniffing some calming oils. Basil, anise, and chamomile are great choices; they reduce tension in the body and help increase mental clarity.

15. Hang out. People who have lots of social support tend to react less negatively to stress than those who fly solo. That’s probably because socializing stimulates the production of the hormone oxytocin, which has an anxiety-reducing effect . So the next time a freak-out appears on the horizon, grab some pals and go for a walk or just have a quick chat.

The Takeaway

In an ideal world, we wouldn’t come up with thoughts that produce stress or anxiety. But we’re human and inevitably worry about things. So when we do start to freak, there are lots of little steps we can take to change our thoughts, calm the brain, relax the body, and get back in the game. And, as always, be sure to check with a psychotherapist if these tips don’t cut it and you need a little extra help tackling a more significant anxiety issue!

http://greatist.com/happiness/reduce-anxiety

[W8t]

Cool as a Cucumber—Your Action Plan

1. Get enough sleep. Inconsistent sleep can have some serious consequences. Not only does it affect our physical health, but lack of sleep can also contribute to overall anxiety and stress. And sometimes it turns into a vicious cycle, since anxiety often leads to disruptions in sleep . Especially when feeling anxious, try to schedule a full seven to nine hours of snooze time and see what a few nights of sweet slumber do for those anxiety levels throughout the day.

2. Smile. When work has got us down, it’s a good idea to take a quick break to get some giggles on. Research suggests that laughter can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, so consider checking out a funny YouTube clip to calm those jittery nerves .

3. De-clutter the brain. Physical clutter = mental clutter. A messy workspace can make it more difficult to relax and make it seem like our work is never-ending. So take 15 minutes or so to tidy up the living space or work area, and then make a habit of keeping things clean and anxiety-free. It’ll help us think rationally, and there won’t be as much room for anxiety.

4. Express gratitude. Studies have found expressing gratitude helps reduce anxiety, especially when we’re well-rested . Start a gratitude journal to get in the mindset of appreciation, and out of the mindset of being overwhelmed.

5. Eat right. Anxiety can throw our bodies totally out of whack: Our appetite might change, or we might crave certain foods. But to give the body the support it needs, try eating more of foods that contain nutrients such as vitamin B and omega-3s, plus some healthy whole-grain carbohydrates. Studies have linked vitamin B with good mental health, and omega-3s may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety . Whole-grain carbs help regulate levels of serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter that helps us remain calm. And even though our cravings might be telling us otherwise, research suggests that eating sugary and processed foods can increase symptoms of anxiety . 15 Easy Ways to Beat Anxiety: Meditate

6. Learn to breathe. A useful tool to prevent panic attacks, the breath is also a great marker of where your anxiety level is at throughout the day. Short, shallow breaths signify stress and anxiety in the brain and body. On the flip side, consciously breathing, plus lengthening and strengthening the breath helps send signals to the brain that it’s okay to relax .

7. Meditate. By now most of us have heard that meditation is relaxing, but what scientists are also discovering is that meditation actually increases the amount of grey matter in the brain, essentially rewiring the body to stress less. A number of recent studies highlight the positive effects of meditation on anxiety, mood, and stress symptoms . Meditation is also a way to observe the brain, letting us figure out how our mind generates anxiety-provoking thoughts. And understanding the brain’s thought patterns can help create distance from those thoughts.

8. Create a vision board. If the future seems big and scary, try changing the thoughts about what lies ahead. Sometimes the mere act of setting concrete goals can take the edge off anxiety about future unknowns. Take an hour to produce a vision board that creates excitement about projects and possibilities to come. And for those who aren’t the crafty type, try making an e-vision board using Pinterest for some Pinspiration. While making the board, try using the T.H.I.N.K. tool: Is my thought true, helpful, inspirational, necessary and kind? If not, dump the thought.

9. Play around. Kids and animals seem to have an innate ability to play, without stressing about their overflowing inboxes. Until business offices give us recess breaks, we’ll have to take responsibility for our own playtime. Offer to take a friend’s dog out for a walk, or babysit for an afternoon to get out of your head and let the careless creatures lead by example.

10. Be silent. Plan for a time when you can completely disconnect. Start with increments of time that seem sustainable and doable for you, even if it’s just five minutes. That means phone off, no emails, no TV, no news, nothing. Let other people know they won’t be able to reach you so you can veg worry free. There’s some evidence that too much noise can boost our stress levels, so schedule some sacred silent time among all the ruckus of daily life. 15 Easy Ways to Beat Anxiety: Be Silent

11. Worry. Yes, we can cause ourselves to freak out, but only for a certain amount of time. When something weighs heavily on your mind, or you believe something terrible is most definitely going to occur, commit to only creating that worry for 20 minutes. Think of all the possible outcomes of the scenario, figure out some game plans, and then quit thinking about it after 20 minutes go by. Have a friend call after the allotted time has passed to avoid the temptation of going over the time limit. Or schedule some of that playtime right afterward.

12. Plan ahead. Fight anxious thoughts in advance by preparing for the day ahead. Try making a schedule or a to-do list and develop habits that increase productivity. So instead of spending 10 extra minutes every morning frantically looking for those keys, make a habit of always putting them in the same place when you come home. Lay out clothes the night before, pack a gym bag and leave it by the door, or make lunch ahead of time. Focus on how to “un-think” the anxiety-producing beliefs by prepping before they pop up.

13. Visualize anything positive. When confronted with anxious thoughts, take a moment to visualize yourself handling the situation with calm, ease, and clarity. Try not to pay attention to the current mental state; just focus on the feeling of smooth-sailing through the storm. The technique is called “guided imagery” or “guided visualization” and can help reduce feelings of stress .

14. Smell something relaxing. Try sniffing some calming oils. Basil, anise, and chamomile are great choices; they reduce tension in the body and help increase mental clarity.

15. Hang out. People who have lots of social support tend to react less negatively to stress than those who fly solo. That’s probably because socializing stimulates the production of the hormone oxytocin, which has an anxiety-reducing effect . So the next time a freak-out appears on the horizon, grab some pals and go for a walk or just have a quick chat.

The Takeaway

In an ideal world, we wouldn’t come up with thoughts that produce stress or anxiety. But we’re human and inevitably worry about things. So when we do start to freak, there are lots of little steps we can take to change our thoughts, calm the brain, relax the body, and get back in the game. And, as always, be sure to check with a psychotherapist if these tips don’t cut it and you need a little extra help tackling a more significant anxiety issue!

http://greatist.com/happiness/reduce-anxiety

You must spread some Reputation around before giving it to Slats7 again.

[jfortuna92]

Cool as a Cucumber—Your Action Plan

1. Get enough sleep. Inconsistent sleep can have some serious consequences. Not only does it affect our physical health, but lack of sleep can also contribute to overall anxiety and stress. And sometimes it turns into a vicious cycle, since anxiety often leads to disruptions in sleep . Especially when feeling anxious, try to schedule a full seven to nine hours of snooze time and see what a few nights of sweet slumber do for those anxiety levels throughout the day.

2. Smile. When work has got us down, it’s a good idea to take a quick break to get some giggles on. Research suggests that laughter can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, so consider checking out a funny YouTube clip to calm those jittery nerves .

3. De-clutter the brain. Physical clutter = mental clutter. A messy workspace can make it more difficult to relax and make it seem like our work is never-ending. So take 15 minutes or so to tidy up the living space or work area, and then make a habit of keeping things clean and anxiety-free. It’ll help us think rationally, and there won’t be as much room for anxiety.

4. Express gratitude. Studies have found expressing gratitude helps reduce anxiety, especially when we’re well-rested . Start a gratitude journal to get in the mindset of appreciation, and out of the mindset of being overwhelmed.

5. Eat right. Anxiety can throw our bodies totally out of whack: Our appetite might change, or we might crave certain foods. But to give the body the support it needs, try eating more of foods that contain nutrients such as vitamin B and omega-3s, plus some healthy whole-grain carbohydrates. Studies have linked vitamin B with good mental health, and omega-3s may help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety . Whole-grain carbs help regulate levels of serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter that helps us remain calm. And even though our cravings might be telling us otherwise, research suggests that eating sugary and processed foods can increase symptoms of anxiety . 15 Easy Ways to Beat Anxiety: Meditate

6. Learn to breathe. A useful tool to prevent panic attacks, the breath is also a great marker of where your anxiety level is at throughout the day. Short, shallow breaths signify stress and anxiety in the brain and body. On the flip side, consciously breathing, plus lengthening and strengthening the breath helps send signals to the brain that it’s okay to relax .

7. Meditate. By now most of us have heard that meditation is relaxing, but what scientists are also discovering is that meditation actually increases the amount of grey matter in the brain, essentially rewiring the body to stress less. A number of recent studies highlight the positive effects of meditation on anxiety, mood, and stress symptoms . Meditation is also a way to observe the brain, letting us figure out how our mind generates anxiety-provoking thoughts. And understanding the brain’s thought patterns can help create distance from those thoughts.

8. Create a vision board. If the future seems big and scary, try changing the thoughts about what lies ahead. Sometimes the mere act of setting concrete goals can take the edge off anxiety about future unknowns. Take an hour to produce a vision board that creates excitement about projects and possibilities to come. And for those who aren’t the crafty type, try making an e-vision board using Pinterest for some Pinspiration. While making the board, try using the T.H.I.N.K. tool: Is my thought true, helpful, inspirational, necessary and kind? If not, dump the thought.

9. Play around. Kids and animals seem to have an innate ability to play, without stressing about their overflowing inboxes. Until business offices give us recess breaks, we’ll have to take responsibility for our own playtime. Offer to take a friend’s dog out for a walk, or babysit for an afternoon to get out of your head and let the careless creatures lead by example.

10. Be silent. Plan for a time when you can completely disconnect. Start with increments of time that seem sustainable and doable for you, even if it’s just five minutes. That means phone off, no emails, no TV, no news, nothing. Let other people know they won’t be able to reach you so you can veg worry free. There’s some evidence that too much noise can boost our stress levels, so schedule some sacred silent time among all the ruckus of daily life. 15 Easy Ways to Beat Anxiety: Be Silent

11. Worry. Yes, we can cause ourselves to freak out, but only for a certain amount of time. When something weighs heavily on your mind, or you believe something terrible is most definitely going to occur, commit to only creating that worry for 20 minutes. Think of all the possible outcomes of the scenario, figure out some game plans, and then quit thinking about it after 20 minutes go by. Have a friend call after the allotted time has passed to avoid the temptation of going over the time limit. Or schedule some of that playtime right afterward.

12. Plan ahead. Fight anxious thoughts in advance by preparing for the day ahead. Try making a schedule or a to-do list and develop habits that increase productivity. So instead of spending 10 extra minutes every morning frantically looking for those keys, make a habit of always putting them in the same place when you come home. Lay out clothes the night before, pack a gym bag and leave it by the door, or make lunch ahead of time. Focus on how to “un-think” the anxiety-producing beliefs by prepping before they pop up.

13. Visualize anything positive. When confronted with anxious thoughts, take a moment to visualize yourself handling the situation with calm, ease, and clarity. Try not to pay attention to the current mental state; just focus on the feeling of smooth-sailing through the storm. The technique is called “guided imagery” or “guided visualization” and can help reduce feelings of stress .

14. Smell something relaxing. Try sniffing some calming oils. Basil, anise, and chamomile are great choices; they reduce tension in the body and help increase mental clarity.

15. Hang out. People who have lots of social support tend to react less negatively to stress than those who fly solo. That’s probably because socializing stimulates the production of the hormone oxytocin, which has an anxiety-reducing effect . So the next time a freak-out appears on the horizon, grab some pals and go for a walk or just have a quick chat.

The Takeaway

In an ideal world, we wouldn’t come up with thoughts that produce stress or anxiety. But we’re human and inevitably worry about things. So when we do start to freak, there are lots of little steps we can take to change our thoughts, calm the brain, relax the body, and get back in the game. And, as always, be sure to check with a psychotherapist if these tips don’t cut it and you need a little extra help tackling a more significant anxiety issue!

http://greatist.com/happiness/reduce-anxiety

Thank you very much I've been looking for a comprehensive list that puts it all together like that.

[jfortuna92]

You must spread some Reputation around before giving it to Slats7 again.

I am not concerned with competing with people, I just want to improve myself and help make the world a better place.

[SloBrah]

Dude, you make this thread every day lol, still miring the transformation, gotta do everything you to keep anxiety at bay.

[jfortuna92]

watched the video.

good job brah. i'm impressed. i was in a similar situation like you once

thanks man I'm happy to hear you made it out

[jfortuna92]

Dude, you make this thread every day lol, still miring the transformation, gotta do everything you to keep anxiety at bay.

Thanks man, believe me I don't enjoy it I'm just trying to help people.

[SloBrah]

Thanks man, believe me I don't enjoy it I'm just trying to help people.

Yea, i didn't mean it in a bad way, repped you also got any other tips beside working out, which helped you?

[jfortuna92]

Yea, i didn't mean it in a bad way, repped you also got any other tips beside working out, which helped you?

Appreciate it, and yes, one of the reasons cognitive behavioral therapy is so successful is because it helps us think about things in new ways. Like anything else worried thoughts or sad thoughts can become habitual. I knew that if I trained myself to be worried and sad that I could train myself to become positive. To do that I used all sorts of positive media from feel good house music to the movie "never back down" to inspire me to become positive. I did this every single so the habit could form and overtime it became habitual and second nature.

[wantrepreneur]

Cool as a Cucumber—Your Action Plan

11. Worry. Yes, we can cause ourselves to freak out, but only for a certain amount of time. When something weighs heavily on your mind, or you believe something terrible is most definitely going to occur, commit to only creating that worry for 20 minutes. Think of all the possible outcomes of the scenario, figure out some game plans, and then quit thinking about it after 20 minutes go by. Have a friend call after the allotted time has passed to avoid the temptation of going over the time limit. Or schedule some of that playtime right afterward.

http://greatist.com/happiness/reduce-anxiety

I feel like this one alone is key. Going to try this because my mornings are always filled with stress and anxiety

[jfortuna92]

I feel like this one alone is key. Going to try this because my mornings are always filled with stress and anxiety

good idea, i think ill try this as well

[wantrepreneur]

good idea, i think ill try this as well

Acutually meant to quote this one lol

"12. Plan ahead. Fight anxious thoughts in advance by preparing for the day ahead. Try making a schedule or a to-do list and develop habits that increase productivity. So instead of spending 10 extra minutes every morning frantically looking for those keys, make a habit of always putting them in the same place when you come home. Lay out clothes the night before, pack a gym bag and leave it by the door, or make lunch ahead of time. Focus on how to “un-think” the anxiety-producing beliefs by prepping before they pop up."

Hence why it might help my morning anxiety

[WookinPaNub]

Anxiety and depression almost destroyed my life. I remember just a little less than two years ago I wouldn't look in the mirror when I would use the bathroom because I was so saddened and disgusted with myself as a person. After crying one day when looking in the mirror I knew i had to create a different life for myself. I decided to "show up' in all aspects of my life and get involved in every and anything i could. I started participating in my college classes, going to the gym, and playing rugby for my school. This is my transformation.

If you know someone who suffers from anxiety or depression please share. If you enjoy the video please like and subscribe so it reaches as many people as possible. Thank you.

That's funny OP, because anxiety and depression almost destroyed my life. I remember just a little less than two years ago I wouldn't look in the mirror when I would use the bathroom because I was so saddened and disgusted with myself as a person. After crying one day when looking in the mirror I knew i had to create a different life for myself. I decided to "show up' in all aspects of my life and get involved in every and anything i could. I started participating in my college classes, going to the gym, and playing rugby for my school. This is my transformation.

If you know someone who suffers from anxiety or depression please share. If you enjoy the video please like and subscribe so it reaches as many people as possible. Thank you.

[jfortuna92]

Acutually meant to quote this one lol

"12. Plan ahead. Fight anxious thoughts in advance by preparing for the day ahead. Try making a schedule or a to-do list and develop habits that increase productivity. So instead of spending 10 extra minutes every morning frantically looking for those keys, make a habit of always putting them in the same place when you come home. Lay out clothes the night before, pack a gym bag and leave it by the door, or make lunch ahead of time. Focus on how to “un-think” the anxiety-producing beliefs by prepping before they pop up."

Hence why it might help my morning anxiety

Definitely, I think the less decisions we have to make in our lives the less stressful it is, the paradox of choice. Here are two things I also did to reduce anxiety.

1. As outlined in number 12. REDUCE DECISION MAKING: That could be preparing my meals the day before or simplifying my wardrobe. It's easy to choose what to wear when you only have black and white t-shirts for example. These are just a couple of examples but the point if we can reduce our choices, we reduce our anxiety.

2. SETTING SELF DEADLINES: Being indecisive and a perfectionist can cause major anxiety especially if comorbid. My brother used to hand in all his papers late in school and one day my dad said to him "your teacher is not looking for the best paper ever, just the best paper you can write in two weeks." This is why I now give myself arbitrary deadlines for things, to create structure and reduce stress.

[jfortuna92]

That's funny OP, because anxiety and depression almost destroyed my life. I remember just a little less than two years ago I wouldn't look in the mirror when I would use the bathroom because I was so saddened and disgusted with myself as a person. After crying one day when looking in the mirror I knew i had to create a different life for myself. I decided to "show up' in all aspects of my life and get involved in every and anything i could. I started participating in my college classes, going to the gym, and playing rugby for my school. This is my transformation.

If you know someone who suffers from anxiety or depression please share. If you enjoy the video please like and subscribe so it reaches as many people as possible. Thank you.

Sounds like we have a lot in common.

[Slats7]

Thank you very much I've been looking for a comprehensive list that puts it all together like that.

No worries. You're going to make it brah.

[confusedbrah10]

howd u get so big and lean?

inb4 cell tech

[jfortuna92]

howd u get so big and lean?

inb4 cell tech

Thanks man, but I'm actually very small, I weighed 30 pounds heavier so I could play rugby for my school. Here I only weigh 129 pounds.

[Staynlean]

I suffer badly with a fear of the unknown. Just went through a divorce and am now separated from my little baby girl who I adore. Now that my expectations are not being met of her being raised in the traditional family household I just can't let that go...

It's constantly on my mind. I obviously live alone now and I can't even stand to be at my new house alone. I only sleep there and then just live at the gym or at work in our very accommodating break room (big screen, about 50 recliners, locker room w/showers.) I feel that's a bad habit to have gotten into, I'm now TERRIFIED to be at my house unless I am sleeping. I wake up, already have my gym bag packed (which I basically live out of) and immediately leave.

Can anybody relate to this? Any suggestions?

[jfortuna92]

I suffer badly with a fear of the unknown. Just went through a divorce and am now separated from my little baby girl who I adore. Now that my expectations are not being met of her being raised in the traditional family household I just can't let that go...

It's constantly on my mind. I obviously live alone now and I can't even stand to be at my new house alone. I only sleep there and then just live at the gym or at work in our very accommodating break room (big screen, about 50 recliners, locker room w/showers.) I feel that's a bad habit to have gotten into, I'm now TERRIFIED to be at my house unless I am sleeping. I wake up, already have my gym bag packed (which I basically live out of) and immediately leave.

Can anybody relate to this? Any suggestions?

Sorry to hear about your daughter. Can anyone relate or have any advice for this man?

[SloBrah]

Hey bro, just watched ur video again and you mentioned insomnia, how did you conquer that? My sleep is kinda bad since a year or so now.

[jfortuna92]

Hey bro, just watched ur video again and you mentioned insomnia, how did you conquer that? My sleep is kinda bad since a year or so now.

That sucks man. What kind of sleep troubles are you have, going to sleep or staying asleep or both? For me I couldn't fall asleep and I would wake up 6 times a night. Here's what I did, not sure what exactly worked because I used so many things at once but here is the list, truly hope it helps you

1. Started working out in the morning: my hard workouts at night left my body revved up and conflicted with my ability to calm down and fall asleep
2. Magnesium: This relaxation mineral was key for me I either bought Natural Vitality Calm (the supplement Henry Cavill used to get sleep when filming Man of Steel) or got it from sweet potatoes right before bed, both work wonders).
3. Downloaded https://justgetflux.com. This lighting app for my computer changes the lighting from bright in the morning to mellow at night. I was always on my computer sending work emails and what not right before bed but the lighting was tricking my body into thinking it was daytime. Supposedly any type of artificial lighting mimics the sun and makes our body believe it is day time, so between that app and turn off all the lights, things got better.
4. Melatonin: this does't help you stay asleep but it's an all natural mineral that makes you drowsy so if your problems are falling asleep this will help knock you out.
5. Counting numbers: Closing my eyes and counting as high as I could. Tedious and boring, I know, but it helps calm the mind if your anxious before bed.

[jfortuna92]

Just want to say, thank you to everyone that has supported me. I made that video to motivate and relate to people and thought even if I could reach one person that I would feel content. Well yesterday afternoon something amazing happened; people starting private messaging their own personal struggles and their still coming in. Thanks again brahs, glad we all have each others back.

[wantrepreneur]

Did you ever deal with social anxiety man?

I have a fear of walking down the street and feel like people are watching me and laughing at me all the time. Also have a fear of walking into classrooms late.

I know it sounds ridiculous but anyone else with me on this one?

[jfortuna92]

I can relate to this 100% that feels when you walk into class and there is only a couple seats left and you feel like everyone is watching you as you try and find a seat.

[wantrepreneur]

I can relate to this 100% that feels when you walk into class and there is only a couple seats left and you feel like everyone is watching you as you try and find a seat.

Exactly! Glad it's not just me

[jfortuna92]

Repped for having courage to share your struggles.

[oneplus]

Thanks for this bro
few qs : are you really 5' 4" n 129 in this video?How do you used to motivate urself during this time?
Keep inspiring other ppl. you re doing gud job , liked & subscribed

[jfortuna92]

Thanks for this bro
few qs : are you really 5' 4" n 129 in this video?How do you used to motivate urself during this time?
Keep inspiring other ppl. you re doing gud job , liked & subscribed

Yes. I will share a little more of my story and highlight what motivated/helped me. Anxiety and depression are not random they are responses to events in our life and how we perceive the world.

PART I.

Story: After graduating high school with a 1.9 g.p.a no university accepted me except my local community college. I had no car, severe acne, and was attending community college which was "beneath me" in my immature perception at the time. It seemed everyone around me thought I was a low life and one family member made fun of me saying that "he'll end up in jail haha". It's all good though, brb going to answer this email . Those are the things that made me depressed and have anxiety. Since I didn't have any friends who lifted, working out was not on my radar. THIS is what made me want to lift. I wanted to play rugby and the team captain was in my communications class my junior year and I saw him outside of class and said "I am interested in playing rugby" and he looked at me like "da ****" and went back to playing on his phone. I was demoralized. Senior year he sees me in the school gym working out and talking to this girl and I catch him mirin' hard. We both knew who each other were but I didn't say a word. Around this time my brother gets out of the Marines transfers to my school and we play rugby together in my senior year.