Anxiety in relationships

[TechTomic]

So I'm not really sure how to begin this as I havent really reached out into a forum before. 

 

The background of the story is I've been with my partner for the better part of 8 years now and during that time it's been plagued with relationship anxiety. I suffer from GAD outside of a relationship so it's worth noting however it seems to be relationships that it effects the most. 

 

This anxiety isnt one of being scared of being left, it's a constant battle of me being with my partner. I'm forever stuck inside my own head, over analysing everything shes saying like "did I like what she said, do I like her mannerisms" etc. Its even crippling some days to talk to her. This anxiety is sometimes incredibly crippling in which I just shutdown away from her.

 

We have open communication about this and shes very understanding with me about it. It's just almost like my brain will not allow me to accept a deep connection. We have been on breaks, I've even tried seeing someone else after a prolonged break (worth mentioning it was casual and even during this time I began to feel this anxiety). 

 

The relationship as a whole is good, we dont massively argue, we get on and enjoy the same things so theres nothing blindingly wrong with the relationship as a whole, I'm just forever plagued with these thoughts.

 

Does anyone have any insight, similar experiences or advice? It would be great to hear it. Thanks 

[lonelyplanetmoon]

I’m an introvert and mostly live in my head as well.  I don’t have extreme anxiety but I do tend to tie myself into knots unnecessarily.  In my past that is.

Today I have found that it is no fun to take myself too seriously.  Like who cares?  Just LET IT GO.  Learning to let go of thoughts and feelings is very freeing.

It takes practice, a lot of practice.  And patience and understanding for yourself.  I read the book “the power of now”.  It gave me some great perspectives to help me change/make changes.