[DarcRaven]

#1058734

I’m an artist at heart. I paint, draw, photograph, all those nice artsy things. Its always helped me emotionally de-stress. Music is usually my inspiration…I ALWAYS have to have music going. Helps keep my mind active so I don’t go astray from what I’m doing. ” title=”Very Happy” />

What are your ways of dealing with emotional stress…especially from GD?

[gatorgirly]

#1169688

I don’t, and I’m convinced that’s why I got Graves in the first places. I don’t address stress. I internalize it, as most of the stressors in my life are things I don’t feel comfortable sharing with anyone – finances, relationships, etc. I’ve started seeing a therapist who lets me talk and vent without judging, and reminds me that I haven’t done anything to hurt anyone, so the things I stress over are actually spilt milk or are simply out of my control so there’s no point in stressing over them. She once offered anti-anxiety meds but she knew I wouldn’t go for it since the Graves has caused me to be on Synthroid, beta blockers, two acne medications (thanks a lot, prednisone) and omeprazole for Graves-related gastroparesis and GERD. No more drugs!

I found music, yoga and exercise do not help me de-stress. The whole time I’m doing yoga or working out, I’m thinking about how I’m going to pay my next bill. I’ve learned that talking about my stressors to a total stranger helps me get them out of my head where they will constantly brew until I get another ulcer or have a mental breakdown. I work 50 hours a week and am very involved in a local non-profit, so there’s not much time for me to do things like arts and crafts, which I do enjoy. However, I find that keeping busy at work or with a volunteer project keeps my mind focused on the task at hand, rather than on money or men.

I’m convinced my type A, anxious, worrisome, stressed personality caused me to develop Graves. There is no family history of any thyroid issues. I hope I can avoid passing this on to my future children by learning how to better handle stress, accept help, and keep my thyroid levels where they should be.

[WendySue]

#1169689

I am a professional photographer, was diagnosed with Graves in May 2011, after suffering with a multitude of symptoms for almost 2 years.

I like to use a softball hitting trainer to manage my stress. Metal pole, with a long string with a softball attached to one end. If you hit the ball with a bat correctly it swings back at you so you can hit the ball again, and again. Great exercise to help bring back muscles that have been compromised when hyper.

Using the bat to bash my frustrations is a positive way I am dealing with all that irks me. Beats screaming inside my head which often leads to making my ears ring. ” title=”Wink” />

[liltaz]

#1169690

Wendy Suee, the softball hitting was a great idea, but it is not possible due to income. Recently last week my endo took me off of methimazole until Tuesday. I guess we gradually go up to level out but I have noticed a really bad difference in emotions. Emotions I havent felt in a very long time. Why? So I have these uproaring emotions and then I started to get anxiety back with the palpitations and anxiety followed by crying. Yes I know I already have a doc apt set this week. I have been confused about the emotions. Why would any doctor want you to be this way?
Please assist me.

[Kimberly]

#1169691

Hello – We’re not doctors here, just fellow patients…but having thyroid hormone levels that are out of balance can definitely impact emotions. Hopefully, your next doctor’s visit will help shed some light.

As you go through this journey, it’s really helpful to keep hard copies of all your labs. Keeping copies of your labs can help you identify the “sweet spot” for medication, as the “normal” range is fairly wide, and some people feel better at certain spots in the range. Keeping hard copies is also helpful in understanding how your doctor is making treatment/dosing decisions.

The best doctors will both look at labs *and* talk to you about your symptoms. If your doctor seems to be a "labs only" kind of person, and you really aren’t feeling well, definitely speak up. Remember that YOU are the customer here!

In terms of relaxation, *any* activity that you can completely absorb yourself in is helpful; it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Many patients find relief from simple activities such as a few moments of meditation, spending some time enjoying nature, or being around people who *give* you energy (instead of those who drain your energy!).

[DejanSavv]

#1169692

I found very helpful to calm my mind with long walking and reading some inspirational books. From time to time, when some stress hit me, i take a few moments to fokus on my blessing in my life and thanks God for than, and that make me feel good again.

English is not my native language, so I apologize if I have wrote something wrong.

Thanks for useful informations on this forum.

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