Panic Attacks Support Group
A panic attack is a period of intense fear or discomfort, typically with an abrupt onset and usually lasting no more than thirty minutes. Symptoms include trembling, shortness of breath, heart palpitations, sweating, nausea, dizziness, hyperventilation, and sensations of choking or smothering. Panic attacks can be very sudden, appear to be unprovoked, and are often...
I have panic attacks---severely while in public. I take Xanax and they help, however, they produce drowsiness-so I do not take them if, or while driving. I have been in public and felt like I was going to literally pass out or die! I usually run to the restroom or car....anyone else have this and if so, what do you do about it?
I was diagnosed with Panic Disorder over 10 years ago and can completely relate to what you are feeling. I take Xanax as well, in fact the highest dose at 2mg and it certainly will make you drowsy. When I feel I need to use it but can't afford to feel drowsy, I split the pill and take half of it. Do you only get your Panic Attacks in public? If so, that sound more like Social Anxiety Disorder.
I couldnt figure out why I was having them in public because its not like I was stressed. I would be eating in a restaurant, at the store, at a club, movie theatre etc and within 10mts I began to have a panic attack. It was very frustrating and go to the point that I felt it was just easier to not go out. This is not the best thing to do of course.
It is common for people with panic disorder to develop agoraphobia because the fear of having reoccurent panic attacks in public is dibilatating.
Have you tried self talking to youself while you were in public or doing a relaxation technique before you leave your car and go in the public.
Are there thoughts that go through your mind while you are in the public.
When did the public panic attacks begin and how often do you have them?