I can definitely feel your level of anxiety. It goes hand in hand with fibro and I think they trigger each other. I suppressed my anxiety to a tolerable level with the help of mainly Cymbalta and my fibro symptoms improved. You mentioned that you can't take antidepressants so I can suggest other natural ways and supplements that may work for you.

1) Magnesium glycinate is known for fighting fatigue, but it also helps with anxiety (calming effect) and improves sleep.

2) 5-HTP is a naturally occurring amino acid which is used by the body as a building block for serotonin. Taking a 5-HTP supplement might help to promote healthy levels of serotonin, which is heavily linked to mood balance and sleep.

3) Adaptogenic herb supplements like ashwagandha and rhodiola root are also good at lowering the cortisol levels and reducing the stress, calming and clarifying the mind. Rhodiola is also good at increasing energy and fighting fatigue.

4) Any kind of working out or gentle yoga would help with calming the body and mind. Meditation is also very helpful if you could just spend 10 minutes on a daily basis. It's teaching me to be mindful when the anxiety rises and manage it. Even very simple breathing exercises can be more effective than a medication.

Feeling anxious all the time and constantly being in a fight/flight mode is terrible, I know how it's like. But don't identify yourself with it and breathe.

I some periods have more anxiety than others, did a lot of research and sometimes things have helped, look for Ashok Gupta, his program helped me, and also read the book and do the ercercises of David Burns, he is a psychiatrist. Our nervous system is quack and we are on flight or fight must of the time, and our sleep is not restful. I found that learning a lot about all this has hep,ed me a lot. Of course I use medication when in need, but the worst thing is being afraid of fear.

Thanks for all your answers. I have very much the same problems as the person you answered for. I didn't know about all the different supplements to take. I do take Xanax but don't want to as I've had a bad experience with it in the past. I will take your suggestions into account. Thank you so much again, I wish you a good day with little pain and soft hugs,
Badkatz

Thank you, Amzel :)

All that stuff works. I think I go into "Flight or Fight" mode especially during menstruation. I also take Gaba and notice it helps right away. I only eat sugar from maple and dates.... and cut out the morning coffee.
My mind is too busy for just meditation but I do yoga and it seriously helps. All good things Canti mentioned.