Does anyone else get anxiety attacks? I'm trying to find a therapist who deals with ex cult members. Any references?
Karen M. replied:
To all.....there is a book called "Self Esteem" by Matthew McKay and Patrick Fanning. A friend gave it to me while I was in my black hole...had been df'd about 4 yrs at the time. It's not a cure, but the information in there is absolutely wonderful. We are programmed to believe that we're the last person on the list to take care of emotionally and spiritually, when we should be first (not to the exclusion of becoming totally unsympathic/caring of others). There is a long list of "shoulds"...I should do THIS, I should be THAT. How the hell is one person supposed to complete the list? And when we CAN'T, the anxiety and depression take over. Studies have shown that MEDICATION + THERAPY brings the best results. And nothing says this has to be a forever thing. I say this as both a counselor AND one who has been in counseling. We cannot UNLEARN anything......BUT....we can learn NEW things to take the place of the negative, and make that our "go to response". It takes time, and I'm still working my journey along with you all. Much love.....
Edith C. replied:
Krista, I found my therapist through this website, http://www.networktherapy.com/ I emailed/called several therapists before settling on one I felt would be a good fit, and so far he is. Therapy alone isn't always enough - you need to find someone you feel comfortable with and connect with. Even then, it's hard... you find yourself saying and remembering things you don't want to, but must. The honesty and demon-facing is hard, but for many of us, as stated above, therapy is a very important step in getting past any JW issues that continue to plague us.