Connect with people who understand what you are going through,
seek advice and surround yourself with support. We're
free, anonymous, and professionally moderated 24/7.
The recent medication changes has calmed my brain down. I’m still feeling caged up, I know my psych is looking at more frequent therapy sessions if we can get more under ED plan. Once a month sessions aren’t enough. It just feels like the traumatic memories aren’t ending, I’ve been in therapy for years. It’s taking so long to heal. I just want to get to the point the body flashbacks aren’t so regular
@GezzaP the cold can make you less motivated to shower. I feel like sweating also motivates you to go into the shower, it’s just been cold here today. Yesterday was also chilly. My GP was late this morning, he usually isn’t that late, I was waiting for an hour and a bit.
I’ve already gotten the lightheadedness, but I haven’t eaten anything yet, probably should. I exercised and then didn’t eat anything, just had some water. I feel too heavy, but it’s approaching 6pm, I’ll need to eat something around 6.
It’s scary seeing the dietician because it means I need to change habits. My current habits may help me feel in control but it’s making me ill. I have chronic migraines, I get POTS symptoms, feeling lightheaded is common. I have other aches and pains, not sure how much is joint hypermobility and how much is ED. I know EDs have ramifications for physical and mental health. A part of me doesn’t care and wants to give in, even though I know the consequences. I know it won’t heal my pain, but it gives me control over something in my life. There is a reason why ED plan gets you more psych and dieticians sessions per year
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
GezzaPSenior Contributor
Re: Feeling caged up
@creative_writer Oh migraines suck. I used to get them but haven’t had any since menopause. No wonder you’re light headed if you haven’t eaten. I can only encourage you to eat something. I got hungry so I already ate. My GP is at least an hour late but I’m hoping I’m first on her afternoon list and don’t have to wait too long. Wish I could get a mental health plan so I could see a psych as well as calls from my psychiatrist to help manage the bipolar. I asked my GP but she said no for some reason. Maybe I should try with another GP but I like my GP and she gives me a discount. The clinic I go to doesn’t bulk bill like so many now don’t. I’m on a small super pension.
Have been pretty good with the smoking today. Hoping to get stop smoking meds tomorrow.
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
creative_writerSenior Contributor
Re: Feeling caged up
@GezzaP glad to hear you don't get migraines. I get auras with my migraines. I'm still able to do things during an aura since they're mild, but the pain that follows is the worst.
I've eaten some dinner. I've been sticking with small meals, it is what I can tolerate at the moment.
It's strange that your GP won't give you a mental health care plan. Would it help talking to your psychiatrist about the mental health care plan? Your psychiatrist could send a letter to your GP to refer you to a psych.
Finger crossed on the smoking tablets helping you quit smoking.
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
GezzaPSenior Contributor
Re: Feeling caged up
@creative_writer I used to get bad headaches but I only get them now when my back plays up. But they are a withdrawal symptom of giving up smoking so I’m expecting to get some. I’ve already had some from cutting back on the smokes. Glad you were able to eat something even just a small meal. It is better than nothing. I feel for you getting migraines they must be awful.
Yes I will talk to my psychiatrist about getting a mental health plan. I think I need the support of a psychologist to cope with my sister being so horrible to me.
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
creative_writerSenior Contributor
Re: Feeling caged up
@GezzaP withdrawal with certainty have its physical symptoms, hopefully the new tablets help.
I hope your psychiatrist is able to support you in getting those sessions.
In response to: Feeling caged up
AuntGlowModerator
Re: Feeling caged up
That's okay @GezzaP - that chilli con carne sounds de-lish!! Do you have a go-to recipe?
I am proud of you for cooking, it's something I really struggle with!
Do you usually enjoy cooking and being creative in the kitchen? ☺️
In response to: Feeling caged up
AuntGlowModerator
Re: Feeling caged up
Good evening @creative_writer,
I am glad you are starting to get some answers. I understand how bloating might create some negative self-talk and also just general discomfort. I often have gut issues, so I completely get this feeling. What are you doing to nurture your belly at the moment?
Oh and are you still exploring matcha and saffron for adhd symptoms? 💛
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
GezzaPSenior Contributor
Re: Feeling caged up
@AuntGlow I don’t really like cooking just for myself can’t be bothered. Yes I have a go to recipe. Left the onion out today as I didn’t have any. Need to go shopping. I have a tiny kitchen that annoys me. But hey I cooked today and I had leftovers. I am determined to shower and go shopping tomorrow.
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
GezzaPSenior Contributor
Re: Feeling caged up
The hardest part of giving up smoking is fighting the habits @creative_writer like with coffee, after meals and when you stand up to give your back a stretch. But the tablets block the urge so you’re not fighting that as well. I gave up for 6 months last time I was on them.
Yes I hope I can get a mental health plan.
I have retired to bed. Cat is in the cupboard. Hope you are ok.
In response to: Re: Feeling caged up
creative_writerSenior Contributor
Re: Feeling caged up
@AuntGlow gut issues need to be treated because they are a barrier. I'm taking supplements and not trying to push myself too much with food. If I push, the risk of my ED getting worse is high. My diet is far from adequate, especially with my increased physical activity. I may be eating better than before, but I have also become more physically active and my body is struggling to keep up. Can't say too much on here, my body is under stress. I still have exercise intolerance and I push through even when I am not meant to. I think it would be best to work with a dietician who specialises in EDs.
I am still drinking matcha morning and early afternoon, it helps me feel better. I've been off coffee, I used to take a tiny amount but it was irritating my stomach. I'm taking saffron extract supplements now. The extract has been shown to have antidepressant properties and help with ADHD symptoms in the literature. I hope you are doing well 💖.
@GezzaP nicotine withdrawal is real. I haven't ever used nicotine, but have seen it play out in my extended family. I have used something else to cope with the emotional pain, and I still crave it, just don't have access to it anymore. I don't know if anyone will agree to give me access to it now. My psychiatrist thought it was too risky, especially with my bipolar. Bipolar and ADHD can make people more vulnerable to developing addictions
We're improving how you access SANE services, starting with Forums
You’ll soon be able to use one secure login to access all SANE services.
For added security, members are now required to log in with their email address and password - member names are no longer supported for logging in.
If you had a Forums account before 19 May 2026 and haven’t set up your new login yet, you'll be prompted to set up your new secure login when you sign-in.