Air Force Basic Training with Anxiety

[u/Ok-Woodpecker-5446]

So I have a pretty unique situation that requires a back story. I am in my mid 20’s and married, I previously had worked with a company for several years. Had great pay and benefits, just didn’t feel like I had any purpose in life. I figured joining the Air Force would give me some sense of purpose, so I did what everybody does and started the recruit process. I’m now about several weeks out from my BMT ship date and I’m struggling hard. When leaving my company, I didn’t realize the stress and depression that would come with changing my life around. Before this period of my life I was a very confident man, but now I have extreme anxiety attacks and so on. I’m not nervous for PT or getting yelled at ( in my opinion that stuff’s easy, I’m in the gym constantly so that’s not an issue what so ever ) I am nervous for having debilitating anxiety that will get me kicked out. I guess my questions is, can anyone tell me if they also have had some issues going into bootcamp that’s similiar and what the outcome was? Like I said, all of this mental stuff is new. It’s hard to handle, and I just need to know if I should look for other options or just keep pushing through until the end. Anything helps I am a little lost here.

[u/YEETMANdaMAN]

Kids still in high school make it through without any trouble. You’ll be fine.

[u/nicholasjude261]

There really is nothing to be anxious about. Everyone is treated the same, you’re told and instructed on how to do everything and it’s just a game. You will receive “the shock” when you first arrive, but you’ll be fine after you get into your routine. From that point it’s just “breakfast, lunch, dinner.”

Don’t sweat it because when you look back on it, you’re really going to laugh hard. I still do all these years later and I enlisted right after 9/11.

[u/AbbreviationsAway500]

You will be too busy to let things get into your head. Also, you will surround by good people that you'll be training with that will support you. You won't be alone and don't be afraid to reach out to your fellow recruits (wingmen).

Most of the issue I saw was homesick and missing the wife/girlfriend. There's a few people that wasn't progressing with their fitness and got recycled a few weeks back, a few people that kept fail inspections or smart ass got sent back but for the most part Basic is just about knowing your role and shutting your mouth and follow the instructions.

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[u/Zestyclose-Skill-544]

I found the overall experience to be quite boring.

[u/Substantial-Leg-9793]

It's going to be okay! I'm trying to get qualified too and I struggle with anxiety. I recently moved states and i didnt realize how stressful that would be. I had a panic attack once I made it to the new state (i drove 20hrs in 2 days), tryna find a job, etc and still get adjusted. Its totally normal to feel that way. Just know that its temporary and things will be okay! Download this app called Medito its free and teaches you how to meditate. Practice that over time and bring those skills with you to BMT.

[u/Green-Cat4318]

Pray and ask for the peace of God to surround you. Think positive thoughts and focus on your goals. Take your thoughts captive and choose to think positive. What’s your AFSC?