Soulwynn Interviews 'The Geeky Nutcase'
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Interview by: Geek Girl Soulwynn
One day while surfing some "geeky" stuff, I came across a blog called "The Geeky Nutcase". As it turned out, Amanda Kinder, the blogger of "The Geeky Nutcase", suffered from Anxiety and that she used her blog to help her cope with the challenges associated with it.
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I have also been afflicted with Anxiety in different forms. I’ve had a history of panic attacks, feeling overwhelmed by crowds, and feeling overwhelmed in general by everyday life. I very much related to Amanda and what she was going through, so I subscribed to get more in touch with how she was handling these challenges, and all the while enjoying the fact that our interests are very similar.
In this interview with Amanda, I wanted to ask her questions about both being a "geek" and a "nutcase". If you’ve had dealings with Anxiety yourself, some of her experiences may help you overcome some challenges in your life.
1.)
When did you first know you were a geek?
I guess I've always been a geek. Both my mom and dad watched Star Wars and Star Trek, and I always watched it with them. If my sister and I were playing with our Barbies and they turned it on, we would both stop and only resume our doll marathon until the movies were over.
2.)
What type of "fandom" or "geekdom" do most of your interests lie in?
Star Wars/Star Trek (for above obvious reasons), The Walking Dead, Steampunk, and I'm slowly being pulled into the Doctor Who fandom with many thanks to Pinterest and Tumblr.
3.)
You’ve stated that you began your blog as a way of focusing on something, and channeling your anxieties into something positive. Have you found this to be effective, and would you recommend to others with anxiety to do something similar?
Having a blog for my anxiety has been more helpful than I can imagine. I originally started it as a journal so I wasn't left alone with my thoughts. The blog has allowed me to not only help myself with my anxiety, but others as well. I would recommend starting a blog if you feel comfortable enough with it. If you don't want the entire world reading your most inner thoughts, perhaps start a regular paper and pen journal. No matter what, keep at it.
4.)
What is the most common misconception about anxiety you’ve found?
The most common misconception I've found is that "it's all in your head", no pun intended. It's not just mental, but it can leave your body physically drained.
5.)
Are there any Superheroes that you tend to relate to, or look up to as a representation of who you’d like to emulate?
I really like (er... love) Wonder Woman. She's strong, quite the butt-kicker, and of course, the Lasso of Truth. That weapon would come in handy these days!
Image by: jmlan
6.)
Are there other ways that you express your geeky interests?
I've started getting into D.I.Y. It's not only a way for me to feel creative, but it's a good distraction from every day worries. For example, I'll be making a light saber later this year.
7.)
What has been the toughest obstacle for you in dealing with your anxiety?
Knowing that everything will turn out okay. It's that little voice that says "Oh my god. What if this happens?" or "What if that happens?" My brain starts coming up with scenarios that just make the worrying worse.
8.)
(Follow-up question if there is more to #7) What is an obstacle you have overcome?
Coming out of my shell. Not only do I suffer from Generalized Anxiety Disorder, I also have some Social Anxiety. For a while, I was anti-social and had problems interacting with people. With the help of my family, I am getting better with my Social Anxiety and not being scared to death.
9.)
Has anxiety and being a geek ever been a problem in a combined sense? i.e: Did you ever feel anxious because someone thought your interests were odd?
When I was younger, I always worried about being cast out from my group of friends because of what I loved. Now, I have friends who share my love of all things geeky/nerdy/dorky. As far as the rest of the world, those thoughts are still in the back of my mind.
10.)
If you could time travel, when would you be and why then?
I would love to go back to the mid to late 1800s. I would have loved to experience the Victorian era in all its tumultuous glory.
11.)
Do you have some words of wisdom for those suffering from anxiety?
Remember that you are not alone. Us nutcases know what it is like to feel hopeless and that there is no way out. Find a support system (family, friends, support groups, etc.) and lean on them when you need some reassurance. You don't have to go through this by yourself.
12.)
Where can people find out more about anxiety that you would recommend?
There are 2 websites that have been very helpful to me and my family.
Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
gad.about.com
They both include links to find help, support, and living with anxiety. The About.com website even provides a link for friends/families who have a loved one dealing with anxiety and how they can help.
13.)
Anything else you would like to add?
Be proud of who you are. Don't allow anyone to change that.
You can help support Amanda and her blog "The Geeky Nutcase" by following her using these methods:
Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Pinterest
I’ve also included some Canadian Anxiety help links:
Anxiety Canada | Anxiety Canada Youth | Anxiety Disorders | Anxiety Disorders pdf
Thank you so much Amanda for taking the time to have this interview with me. I hope I am able to help you spread awareness about this very common affliction which many people have currently, and have suffered from in the past.
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February 10 2014