Hi I'm about 5 months sober after going through some rough stomach problems caused by alcohol and smoking -> GERD/gastritis. I've been struggling with a number of health issues related to this but the worst thing I'm experiencing is anxiety. It's way higher than it ever was when I was drinking. Whenever I get any small flare up with a new health issue or symptom I immediately almost start panicking and really struggle to calm down. I've lost something like 45 pounds in 5 months from a combination of being healthier and the stomach problems.

Does/did anyone else experience this? Did it ever get better? Did you go on medications for anxiety? What worked the best? Right now I'm exercising daily, doing long walks with my dog, doing some meditation eating a pretty healthy diet. This stuff helps a little but not enough. My life feels really hard right now and I'm just not feeling all these benefits from being sober that I thought I would. Anyone who had a similar experience or advice would be helpful.