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 don't know about everyone else but this has really been taking a toll on me. I have a anxiety/panic disorder and am on meds but I feel like they just aren't working like they once used to. My mind has been a wreck. It focuses solely on all bad news and onto the physical sensations that I get from the attacks and I can't seem to come down from a 10. I don't have anyone around me that has suffered or knows what panic disorder is like and would love to find people or a person even that understands and could chat with me and vice versa. Help me help you kind of thing. I'm so scared over everything. I just want it to stop !
I know exactly what you’re going through. Believe me, I do know!! My panic attacks started 30 years ago. I know a build up of stress caused mine. When they started, I thought I was going to die and was afraid to go anywhere fearing I would have one and not be able to control it. I thought that I’d never be able to keep my job and end up being a burden to someone. I have been able to control them for the last 25 years with medication, but every once in a while I feel like one is coming on, but have been able to stop it before it starts. Those physical sensations are frightening, but a friend told me not to dwell on them when they start and think of something pleasant and it will help to stop them or make them less severe. Fighting it just feeds it. It was difficult at first, but as time went on, I was able to control them. Exercise is a big help too. I haven’t had a full blown panic attack in 18 years. Now I am trying to cut back on my meds.
I know all this Carona virus stuff is very frightening, but we can’t let it run our lives. What kind of work do you do? Are you out in the public much? What state do you live in? I live in Ohio and all our K-12 schools are shut down for at least three weeks and the students are continuing their classes on line. Our governor just closed all bars and restaurants from having in dining customers. Take out only till further notice. He’s trying to keep us safe. Just keep in mind that things will get better and wash your hands, wash your hands, wash your hands and keep them from your face. I know we can’t be perfect and need to go out sometimes for groceries or whatever, but use common sense and you’ll be ok. You are young and have a better chance of not getting it. I guess the big thing is, when you’re home, don’t think about it. Find something to do to keep from thinking about it.
Please don’t worry. If I’ve helped you in any way with what I have said, please contact me if you’d like. I’d like to try to help you through your anxiety. I truly understand how you feel.
For now, try to stay calm. Things will be ok. Have faith!
Hugs, Bruce