hacker ways of fighting anxiety?
bbuffone: I had the exact same problem a while back. It was while working full time and creating a startup on the side.  The stress of every thing resulted in the same symptoms. Every day I needed to resist the urge to go to the emergency room because I thought I was going to die of a heart attack. This lasted for about 7 months and I didn't tell anyone until eventually I couldn't take it and one night drove myself to the hospital.  After a series of unpleasant tests, it was just to much stress.So what did I do to fix it?1.) Realized the deadlines and pressure I was putting on myself were self imposed and definitely didn't need to be that aggressive.  One thing I have learned, all time lines and deadlines are made up (know one really knows, its just a best guess), unless there is a contract attached.  Doesn't mean be lazy and slack off.2.) Better time management, context switching in life is aa expensive as it is on a computer, Set aside time for each thing.3.) Task lists, every day create a list of tasks you want to complete and cross items off when done.  The sense of accomplishment creates a good feeling.  Tomorrow create a new task list, don't add to the old one, this is a good way to clear the list of all the shit that doesn't matter or has changed.  You are going to be behind schedule, the goals is to make progress and create milestones that can be reached.3.) Balance your life, being heads down can only last for so long. Enjoy family, friends, people on the street, talk about what you are doing, get ideas and feedback. Get a way for a weekend, see #1 shit can wait a weekend.4.) As soon as possible find someone that can start to use the software and give you feedback. It is amazing how one person giving feedback will help energize you. They will think the progress you are making is far better than you.  This is because what you are doing will hopefully help them in some way.5.) Started exercising, eating better and stopped drinking Coke. Caffeine increases heart rate and only added to the problem, but I was drinking Coke to cope with the sleeping issues.  Exercise is always positive, don't need to run a marathon just get out and walk around, enjoy the sun.6.) Massages, I made my wife start giving me massages and that worked really well. No wife, no worries, you can pay money for a professional.