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...
1. Musical distraction: example...
When I go out and am having a REALLY hard time I put my ear phones in at least one ear. The relaxing music or even rock and roll, focuses my attention until it is needed or even while I am conversing with someone. I just leave the one earbud in.
So if you have a walkman or iPod or portable CD player anything, put one earphone in and the phone to the other ear and make the call. Write down everything you need to say like a script and leave the music playing when the doctor's office answers. Just read your script out loud, you will get an appointment and YAY you are all done.
2. Script it only: if the music is too distracting just write down everything and just read it when the person answers. Have all your info, insurance, ID, address everything right there in front of you written out so nothing can throw you off. Practice your script before making your calls, practice for a couple days before making your calls. CALL UP tie and temperature and read your script to the recording, practice practice practice. This way you will have already done it and now you will be more comfortable when you make the real call.
I hope these help, I will try to think up some more. YOU CAN DO IT :) Have a great day !!!
but hung up when they answered - hey i actually got to that point.
I want to thank you for your tips. I feel so ridiculous ridiculous.
Finding the right doctor IS extremely important! Don't feel anxious. I know it's hard but a doctor isn't there to judge you, they are there to help. I've had the same doctor since I was a small child and he has been extremely helpful but I have talked to other doctors as well. It is nerve wracking to talk to a stranger about your difficulties but remember that you aren't alone in this and they have probably had many many others come to them with the same issue and they are there to help you feel better! If it makes you feel more comfortable, try going to someone of the same sex. I've heard that helps a lot. Also, remind yourself daily and periodically that you can handle it! You are a victor not a victim! My prayers are with you and I believe in you that you can go through with the phone call :)