I struggle with anxiety. I used to think I was depressed until nine years ago when I went on antidepressants and finally recognized my anxiety. I learned that my depression had developed because my anxiety had gotten so bad. At that time, they switched my med to a combination pill and I stabilized. 

I also gained 15 pounds, so I weaned myself off it after two years because the life situations had improved and my already overweight body didn’t need to keep gaining. In 2013, due to some very difficult trials in our the life of my family, I went back on a med for my anxiety. I stayed on it  for two years, and it helped, but I gained 15 more pounds. 

I weaned myself off again and have tried to learn behaviors to deal with my anxiety naturally, along with vitamins and essential oils. I pray , meditate, talk with friends, practicing breathing techniques, write, read fiction , drink lots of water, and try to exercise. Most of the time, I’m all right…I’m not against taking meds. I just don’t want to gain more weight. That battle is tough enough for me as it is. 

However, there are times I am overcome with anxiety and have to fight to keep from giving in to it, follow what I know works , and trust God will calm the storm inside me….and He always does. 

1Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.