Hi,I read your post, and I can tell you that you are not alone. I am 29 soon to be 30 this year. I have been dealing with IBS since my teenage years. It wasn't until around 19 that I found out exactly what was going on with me. However, when I was diagnoised and not really given a cure, I felt depressed and out of sorts. I felt completely lost, isolated, and the pain and terror IBS subjected to me often had me wanting to die. I just didn't feel I could live my life.
I have had a boyfriend of 10 years. It's been very rough for him dealing with my condition. Getting out the house was very difficult. My fear of becoming ill kept me close to home. I would go to work, sometimes couldn't manage that. I almost got fired from a job. It's a horrible feeling not knowing what to do. People can't seem to understand the condition unless they have it. We aren't looking for an excuse not to live our lives, but its how they treat us. I have a very strong work ethic. I feel very committed to being a productive member of society.
Well, I found Heather through my boyfriend's grandmother. It turned out she had IBS too. She stumbled over Heather's book and thought I should read it. I bought a copy of both of her books. Heather's suggestions really opened up my world. I felt better. My problem wasn't cured, but I could manage it more. The one thing her solutions could not cure was my fear and anxiety.
You don't know how many excuses I have made not to attend lunches with the ladies in the office or go out with friends because of my fear. I became a virtual hermit a year or so ago. I gained so much weight.
Well, I went to my doctor several months ago, and I said for the first time with authority. Also, I had health insurance again. I went a year or so without because my job had no benefits. I said I am terrified to leave my house. I am anxious and have panic attacks. My doctor decided to put me on a drug called Lexapro. It's used to treat depression and anxiety disorders.
Well, I have to say that although I have much trepidation about medication, this drug has been wonderous to my well being and life. I get out the house again. In fact, I get out more often. I am not anxious but calm. My IBS attacks are few and far between these days. I am feeling wonderful. I feel free.
I owe Heather a lot for her personal sacrifices to help all of us. So.......
LONG STORY... I know...
THERE is... HOPE. We are here. You aren't alone, and I say forget those people at work. What goes around, comes around. Keeping being the wonderful you.
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