Stress & Anxiety living with Essential Tremor (ET)

Stress & Anxiety living with Essential Tremor (ET)
Living with ET can be a social nightmare. Being out in public can be embarrassing and cause more stress and anxiety. Simple things like holding a glass, eating, and even walking with balance issues can make you feel uncomfortable.

The answer for most people is to try to hide their tremoring hands or just stay home.

So how do you manage your life after ET invades and takes over your body?

• One of the first things is to relax. Easier said than done, well it doesn’t have to be that difficult. Stop trying to hide your tremors and tell people what ET is. Take time for yourself and find a spot where you feel calm.

 

• Try not to put yourself in uncomfortable situations. Try to prepare. Think about if you are going to lunch with friends have one of them assist you. If you have a doctor appointment have someone fill out the paperwork ahead of time or ask a nurse to help. Do not be afraid to ask for help.

 

• Join a local support group if you can. That will help you socialize and take away some of the anxiety and stress going out. If you don’t have a local ET group join an online group. Team DSF does have a private Facebook support group.
• Essential Tremor Worldwide Support Group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/228566427550821/

 

•  Last but not least. Laughter can be the best medicine. Relax and don’t think everyone is laughing at you but you can let them  laugh with you. The old joke that living with ET you have to have your green peas with mash potatoes does ring true. It is also alright to use a form of a sippy cup when you are out in public.

 
What works for some may not work for everyone when you are dealing with stress & Anxiety.

Take time to find what works best for you. Don’t let ET define you or limit you activities.
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​By Team DSF

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