I am not going to go into the chemical imbalances that have caused my anxiety. But I will be happy to tell you how I cope:
EMBRACE THE GOOD MOMENTS.
My life is a whirlwind of change and uncertainty right now. While everyone was crying over the election yesterday, I was crying because I somehow got the feeling that my significant other was only happy that I moved in with him because I brought the dog with me. Nevertheless, the feelings were equally as strong no matter why we all were crying (trust me.) So how is it, that after that (self inflicted but still very real to me) stress I was able to have the most amazing day with him today?
I embraced the good moments. I embraced the day.
I honored the feelings I was having exactly when I had them. I gave those feelings their due time. I was reassured that my feelings were valid, that they mattered, and that they were understood. And once I felt like I had spent enough time on the anxiety that had consumed me, I began to make solid decisions on how to fight the helplessness that I was feeling. Endorphins combat anxiety, so my soldier and I played tennis today. Vitamin D combats depression so my soldier and I spent extra time today. Shopping puts me in an extra good mood so he and I hit some sales today. I embraced each of these activities like a battle against my own brain, and today I won.
You don't win every time though.
Sometimes you can do all of this, and still feel anxious, helpless, and depressed on the inside. That's okay. Sometimes you need more time than you realized. If time continues to pass and if there is no possible way you can see getting out of this hole you feel like you are in, then it's time to seek a professional. There is never any shame in getting help. Ever. But I have learned through my best and worst times that almost every problem has a solution, and with the right help and the right plan, you can get through anything.
Welcome to the anxiety club, friends. Sorry we had to meet like this.