Generalized Anxiety Disorder ~ From the Sidelines

[LaughingWater]

I have 2 loved ones in my house with GAD. One is okay at the moment, the other is spiraling out of control.

This is obviously something I've lived with for a long time. I try very hard to learn what I need to know and be both sympathetic and supportive. I am, however, wearing out right along with my loved ones.

Anyone else in the caregiver role? How do you cope? Is there an online support group specifically for caregivers of anxiety and depression anywhere? I've searched and searched...haven't found anything yet.

I hope this post doesn't upset or bum anyone out. I know things will end up okay. I just had to ask because I'm having trouble locating online support, I can't talk to family members because of privacy concerns, and therapy is getting expensive.

Many thanks. <3

 

[susandean]

Hi, Lori. Wish I could be of help but I am in the same situation. My husband has COPD and GAD. The doctor has him on some medication that helps some. It is very hard to understand and nothing really seems to help that much. I think in my hubbys case because he can't breath he gets attacks and of course that makes breathing harder. It is really difficult to cope with. He is at the point that I don't know if it is the GAD or the COPD that is the worst. All he does is sit all day and any thought of having to get up to do anything causes him to tense up and have problems. Nothing I say or do has helped untill I am at the point of just keeping quiet and being there to assist however I can. He has an old book on the subject but that has not helped him or me.

Susan

 

[LaughingWater]

Susan, I'm so sorry.

I thought for sure I'd find an online support group for family members of those suffering from anxiety disorders. Heck, I'd even take a depression forum, as I think the two are often linked. But I've only found sites that (understandably) support those who suffer themselves...nothing for those of us who are trying to help.

I sent you a PM.

 

[sparrow13]

I have 2 loved ones in my house with GAD. One is okay at the moment, the other is spiraling out of control.

This is obviously something I've lived with for a long time. I try very hard to learn what I need to know and be both sympathetic and supportive. I am, however, wearing out right along with my loved ones.

Anyone else in the caregiver role? How do you cope? Is there an online support group specifically for caregivers of anxiety and depression anywhere? I've searched and searched...haven't found anything yet.

I hope this post doesn't upset or bum anyone out. I know things will end up okay. I just had to ask because I'm having trouble locating online support, I can't talk to family members because of privacy concerns, and therapy is getting expensive.

Many thanks. <3

Maybe these will help? Or at the least be able to point you in a better direction.

http://www.findthelight.net/caregiver/FTL_caregiver_support.htm

http://www.beyondblue.org.au/index.aspx?link_id=90.644

http://www.amazon.com/Anxiety-Disorders-Caregivers-Ken-Strong/dp/1590790561

 

[elliemom]

I PM'd you!!!!!
ellie

 

[LaughingWater]

Thank you! <3