KnowYourPro

I wanted to start a thread dedicated to this subject because it has always affected me- and in recent years, the 'illness' has had quite a negative impact on my life. The past several months have been life-changing, and quite stressful, and as I move on from one chapter to another, I realize that I have something inside of me that I can share with people. So, it's time to share. I have no shame in what I went through, and am a very open person- anyone who knows me would agree.

2007 was absolute hell for me, I was finally diagnosed with Generalized Panic Disorder with Panic Episodes. What set it off was a combination of stressful events (business losses, family troubles) and the plain fact that there is something in my brain that has always been 'off'. I had put off treatment for years, and when you ignore something hoping it will go away, it usually gets worse. I don't think I can describe what I went through well enough to make it clear that it was awful. It was the most terrifying, lonely, depressing period of my life.

Because I am so much better now, thanks to a brilliant drug called Lexapro (cha-ching.. Just kidding), I do want to share my story and help others who are in similar positions. I know from experience that it is a very lonely place to be in, even if there are loved ones around you. No one seems to understand. Because of my unique perspective, I have decided to offer a service of sorts. Anti-Anxiety Life Coaching! One-on-one therapy to help relieve some of the terror that people with Panic Disorder, or GAD, feel. Phone, face-to-face interaction, conquering fears by going on 'field trips'- all of the above and more. When you have someone by your side that 'gets it', it helps.

This is my second profile, and I will utilize this to it's fullest. If anyone knows someone who needs some guidance on how to deal with their anxiety issues, have them contact me here, or email me at theantianxietycoach@gmail.com

Thanks.

Jen Monastero