The Student Room Group

Anxiety, causing problems at uni

This is a bit complicated so I shall try and keep things short.

Basically, Im in my second year at uni and really struggling with anxiety. Because of this, I havent attended any lectures at all since January, which I know is really bad, before anyone starts lecturing me. I have however, kept up with the work at home and done my own studying, and submitted all my assignments.

This is going to sound stupid, but I am petrified of going to lectures/classes because I suffer from anxiety. When I was at college about 4 years ago I had a panic attack in one of my lessons, no reason for it, just came out of nowhere. Ever since I have been scared stiff that the same thing is going to happen, so I try and avoid going to all lectures when I can. The thought of going terrifies me and I have reached the end of my tether now.

I really dont know what to do. I suppose I really should speak to my uni but I am scared they will laugh at me and think I am making up excuses. I have been to my GP in the past but they werent very helpful. Really dont know what to do, help!
Reply 1
Anonymous
This is a bit complicated so I shall try and keep things short.

Basically, Im in my second year at uni and really struggling with anxiety. Because of this, I havent attended any lectures at all since January, which I know is really bad, before anyone starts lecturing me. I have however, kept up with the work at home and done my own studying, and submitted all my assignments.

This is going to sound stupid, but I am petrified of going to lectures/classes because I suffer from anxiety. When I was at college about 4 years ago I had a panic attack in one of my lessons, no reason for it, just came out of nowhere. Ever since I have been scared stiff that the same thing is going to happen, so I try and avoid going to all lectures when I can. The thought of going terrifies me and I have reached the end of my tether now.

I really dont know what to do. I suppose I really should speak to my uni but I am scared they will laugh at me and think I am making up excuses. I have been to my GP in the past but they werent very helpful. Really dont know what to do, help!


Couldn't you go to lectures with a close friend who would stay with you at all times until you don't need them any more?
Reply 2
Because I have missed so many classes and hardly go in, I have lost contact with the people that I made friends with in my first year. That probably makes it worse, since I feel totally isolated from everyone else.
Reply 3
Anonymous
Because I have missed so many classes and hardly go in, I have lost contact with the people that I made friends with in my first year. That probably makes it worse, since I feel totally isolated from everyone else.


You could maybe join a society? They're an easy way to make new friends and you may gain more confidence if you get a position in one. Do you have any contact numbers of your old friends? You could say you've been really busy with work, or that you was going to transfer. Or have you considered transfering and starting fresh?
Try to make yourself go a few times, sitting near the back so you can easily get out if you feel an attack coming on. Hopefully, nothing bad will happen in these times, then you can think over this and try to make yourself believe that it will always be the case that nothing bad will happen.
A GP would definitely not laugh at you. Anxiety is so common, and there are lots of treatments to choose from. GPs readily treat people even for seemingly much less serious cases than yours.
It worries me because my boyfriend has been given quite a high dose of medication although he was still able to function pretty well and it didn't greatly affect his work and relationships. Yet the withdrawals definitely do. Therefore please be very careful in what treatments you get if you do go to a GP.
Reply 5
get yourself a nice bit of CBT. gotta say that helped with mine. went from having a couple a day, to one every few months
Reply 6
Thats an idea, but i don't think medication is always the answer.

I had the same problem, in school. I grew to having severe anxiety and attacks, that have lasted. I just went into classes slowly, all my teachers knew and i had a fabulous support network from my best friends. Therapy is a good idea, and sharing anxiety.
Reply 7
I know exactly how you feel, I went through the same thing in my second and third years. It'll be hard, but speaking to one of your lecturers or someone from student support is the best thing to do - if they are aware of your situation, they'll be much more understanding and willing to work something out for you, especially since you've kept up with the work and submitted the assignments and everything.
Reply 8
LoveMusic
Thats an idea, but i don't think medication is always the answer.

I had the same problem, in school. I grew to having severe anxiety and attacks, that have lasted. I just went into classes slowly, all my teachers knew and i had a fabulous support network from my best friends. Therapy is a good idea, and sharing anxiety.


CBT isn't medication dear. it's congnative behaivioural therapy [im too tired to spell properly]
Reply 9
*slaps head* dur.

I read it wrong.