With this being my first blog, I'm not certain what to write so I will start with an introduction. My name is Ashley and I am currently in my third year of college for Human Services and Psychology. Along with being a full time student I am also employed full time as a fast food resturant manager. I am 21 years old and as you can see I have a lot on my plate. As far as intrests go, I like social activies, and I rescued a spoiled beagle named Rex.

My anxiety is realitivly mild and is mostly related to stress. WIth working full time (and usually overtime) plus going to school I find myself burned out. When it comes to my performance at work or school I am always striving for my best. (I am somewhat of a perfectionist in that regard) I am constantly worried and struggle with financies and that is where the majority of my anxiety comes from. I also worry about what-ifs. I will not drive on the major highway in my town because I feel like every day someone dies on it. (although I am not afraid to drive on any other highway..weird I know). I also have anxiety when I am outside by myself in the dark. I refuse to take my dog outside after dusk and if I'm going to or from my car I'm usually running. I don't live in a horrible neighborhood or anything, but its an apartment complex that has its occassional vandalism. I am constantly in fear of my safety, always aware of my surroundings and yelling at my boyfriend when I think his driving is unsafe.

I never considered myself to have anxiety until a month ago when I began having horrific chest pains. I went to the ER and had a lot of test done, and the only thing that came of it was I was stressed out and had GAD. My doctor prescribe me buspar, but I'm uneasy with the drug so I haven't taken any of it. I mean I definitly have the whole bad childhood, not so good, family thing that is a big sign of anxiety, but I don't know. I feel like I can fight it without medication. I am generally a postive person and the anxiety affects me only when I am alone. I don't think most people know i even have it. I guess I am conflicted on how to resolve this issue.

OK. So this is my first blog……I'm not sure what I'm looking for. I'm not one to throw my problems out in the open, nor am I one to attract attention to myself. Any suggestions? I am open to anything. You can respond with suggestions to my problems, my blog, or a little insight on how this website works.

Thanks a bunch,

Ashley