Steve,
As someone who has panic attacks, I get how hard it is. We do our best to allow it to happen, although this seems unhelpful, trying to push it away just makes it worse. We breathe through it, and have a little kit we carry with things to help ground us. Things to smell, to look at, etc, that help us. We also use ice on the arm to help us stay grounded.
Patches
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Hi Steve,
You are not alone. I also have panic attacks. However they are not as
bad as they used to be. I am under the care of a psychologist and a
physician; they work together to decide what is in my best interest. I
have been taking medication for both anxiety (panic attacks) and
depression. I have found it very helpful to make it through my days.
Medication and relaxation exercises are helpful too. Last year I
developed sever IBS which creates acid reflux problems but with other
medication that is getting under control.
I do not know how helpful I can be but to let you know you are not
alone. A good check-up, with a trusted doctor with whom you can be open
with, might be a good idea. Do the best you can do and try talk therapy
with a trusted therapist. I find that helpful also. Keeping reading
Many Voices and perhaps others will write with their suggestions.
Take Care,
Brenda
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Hi Steve,
It seems you're not alone with panic problems. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, about 2.4 million Americans experience severe anxiety and/or panic from time to time. As you mentioned, medication seems to be useful to prevent or reduce the impact. You'll want to discuss the details appropriately with a prescribing physician.
The Mayo Clinic has some useful information on this, and you can also read what the American Psychiatric Association has to say about panic treatment.
I hope you get some replies from people who've actually overcome this handicap.
Best wishes,
Lynn