Panic Attacks

[julieann]

Does anyone else out there suffer from panic attacks? Can you suggest some self help remedies?

[rja211077]

Therapy, a la Tony Soprano

[rogersaurus]

Yes, I do. The best remedy apparently is to just relax at every available opportunity, even if you aren't having an attack at that time. Calming music, watching TV, reading, having a bath etc. Exercise works well for me, it works the body but allows the mind to relax and releases endorphins into your body which are a natural relaxant. If there's something in particular bothering you (exams etc.), make sure you haven't taken things out of perspective. Confide in friends/family if you think this might help. And if you haven't already, see your doctor who should refer you to a councillor for one on one sessions. Mine was wonderful and helped me enormously. They will be able to offer more detailed advice such as how to break the vicious circle of rising panic. Remember, this is your business and it's up to you how many or how few people to share your problem with. Please don't feel ashamed or embarrassed in any way about having panic attacks, many people have them and they aren't nice, but ultimately, no one has ever died of a panic attack. Laugh and smile as much as possible. Finally, ignore any idiotic attitudes displayed by ignorant people such as Moog.

[Moog]

Cheers editor... in a particularly vicious mood today aren't we!? astonvilla12 I apologise if my initial (and subsequently removed) posting for this question offended you. It was in no way meant to. I hope that my action in no way exacerbated your mental health problems.

[julieann]

Thanks to all those of you who have given me sympathetic answers. And even to Moog who at least responded with a bit of humour. I must admit there was a time in my life when I would have done the same. However now I know first hand what some people have to go through all the time. Now this problem is really beginning to affect my life it's time I did something about it. Thanks again everyone.

[docklands77]

I'd strongly recommend working out in the gym. I've found it gets rid of nervous energy and gives me confidence.

[zeus]

SERIOUSLY, GOING THE GYM IS A GOOD START.BUT THINK OF IT LIKE THIS, YOU ARE THE ONE IN CONTROL.CONTROL YOUR BREATHIN AND BREATH IN AS MUCH AIR AS YOU CAN IN A BREATH AND THEN EXHALE TO YOUR MAXIMAL CAPACITY. CONTROL THIS AND IF NECCESSARY USE A PAPER BAG TO AID U. IT HELPS, BELIEVE ME!!!

[charlottemis]

stay away from caffine which has been known to make people more anxious.exersice does help too,and getting enough sleep.However,why try to manage them yourself? ask your doctor about something if they get really bad. mine perscribed me xanax.I only take them when I get a bad panic attack,but they have been a life saver. they can be addicting though,so will want to take only as directed.