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Anxiety and Panic Attacks

kijani

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I have a really bad panic disorder... to the point that a service dog is actually being trained to help me. I can tell you this. Medication, if that is an option for you, can sometimes help. I find it to be really hit or miss, usually dependent upon the severity of my episodes. That said, I've developed a few coping strategies to try and help myself in various situations in which I find that I usually get overwhelmed or might panic. I'll list them out and maybe they can help you.

Generalized Anxiety Issues (to me, the times when you're panicking and you can't for the life of you figure out why or what brought it on) -- in times like these, I like to write. If you have a pen and paper handy, just do it. Don't even think about it. Just write what's in your head. Even if it's complete jibberish, it will give your mind something to focus on, even subconsciously. Listen to music. Something that you usually find soothing is helpful, and I've found that something with no lyrics is the most beneficial in those panicky times. Sometimes the lyrics can be distracting, or depending on what you're listening to might even add to the panic episode, and that's no fun.

When you're in a calm and clear state of mind, try making a list for yourself of the things and situations which usually bring on these sorts of problems. For example, crowds of people, even when I know everyone, can cause me a lot of anxiety. I try to make sure if I'm going out that I know where the exits are, or that I can excuse myself and there's somewhere close by where I can go "take a breather" if one is needed. If I already know I've had a really stressful day, I generally try to avoid putting myself into those kinds of situations at all to avoid giving myself problems.

As far as the sleep issues go? That's a product of not being able to shut your brain down, which is a product of the anxiety. Look at what time you go to bed. I usually give myself a half hour to an hour before my usual "bedtime" to wind down, so to speak, depending on the day I've had. What I do is grab my favorite blanket, cuddle up with my dog, and make myself a nice hot cup of tea. Chamomile is wonderful. Sit, relax, and drink it nice and slow. Try to find somewhere to sit where you actually CAN relax (as few distractions as possible--away from loud noises and lots of clutter if you can) so that you really can give your brain and your body time to wind down. If your hot/cold flashes and the tingling are products of your anxiety, finding a good bedtime routine might lessen those somewhat.


Hope I was able to help a little bit, and good luck!
 
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Tigger45

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I do the same thing bud. It's usually caused by both external in internal turmoil.

Concerning the external causes don't procrastinate taking care of problems. That only compounds the problem. And every time you click off a problem from you to-do list it just feels good. Also eliminate as many negative influences in your life as possible.

Concerning the internal causes guard your thoughts. A negative thought still creates a negative feeling whether it's just a thought or real. And most the time our negative thoughts don't ever come about and we live with that artificial mindset that ruins our present existence. Praying this can be helpful to you.
 
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jannikitty

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I have been suffering from anxiety and panic attacks for the past few years.

Problems sleeping, often wake up with hot/cold flashes, tingling sensations.

Any thoughts, suggestions and prayers are greatly appreciated. :pray:

It helps me when this happens to get up and take a few good, deep breaths. Then when I lay down again I try to focus on something really pleasant. Like a scene or an experience. Also repeating scriptures to myself helps. But, as one poster said, it is very important to work on problem issues as best you can during waking hours. That way the anxiety and panic are not as likely to emerge during times when you should be sleeping. Good point, that, which I also receive.

Also, remember always that you are not perfect and God does not expect you to do as much as you usually expect of yourself. His mercy, forgiveness, and grace are wide and truly strengthening. I have an acute sense of responsibility and often fear I am either letting others or the Lord down when in reality not so. Moments like that..I stop and remember that I need to give the burden to Him. Then I can more easily due what I really do need to do. It's not all on my shoulders. If we do this (giving him the burden) during awake times it can and often does help us sleep better during the night.

prayers and blessings cause I know the feeling.

J.
 
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rebornfree

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I feel for you Harley Davidson Man. I've not had them, but I have had other serious similar issues, and know these sorts of things can be tough. You seem to have had some good advice below, and I can't really add to it, except to get medical help (as I expect you already are) and ask God to reveal the source of the anxiety.

I think kijani's idea of writing is excellent. The part of our brain which reacts emotionally responds quicker to triggers, than does the part which thinks logically, so by writing you will be bringing into play the calmer parts of your brain. (I'm studying psychology at the moment!) I also agree with jannikitty's point about us not being perfect. God knows and understands our issues, and I have found Him to be so gentle and kind when I've been disabled through mental health problems. Praying for you. :prayer: :hug:
 
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Susie~Q

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I am prone to anxiety and panic attacks. Man, they are scary.

Mine stem from many reason, one is when I need a chiropractic adjustment, if my neck is out, I can get them. Also, if I am hungry and my blood sugar goes to low, of course, lots of stress certainly does not help the situation.

I take a good, vitamin B complex, these are the "nerve" vitamins. I would be happy to help if you want, just PM me. Right now, I am on the cell phone and it is hard to type a lot.
 
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Pinker

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Oh yeah...severe sometimes to the point I do not want to leave the safety of my home. I was on meds, but became a "zombie" and got off of them some years ago. I use Christian relaxation music, or just my favorite Christian albums, lean back with a hot cup of tea and try to relax, let the Spirit minister to me, and I can carry on. Other than meds, this is what I can do for my severe panic attacks.

I guess what stumps me is I really cannot figure out what brings them on??

Pinker
 
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