Surviving a Panic Attack

There is no perfect way to get through a panic attack.  Certain things work for certain people while some people cannot find any relief.

I read something on the internet the other day regarding panic attacks and drug free therapy.  The dr. (who shall remain nameless) stated that he could cure anyone's panic disorder in a matter of seconds.

His suggestions?  "Read the following paragraph aloud for 30 seconds while sitting in a chair with your feet firmly planted on the ground and your eyes closed." 

Some of the panic attacks I have had in the past have included vertigo symptoms.  So, no way, no how would I ever find relief in closing my eyes...

And the main problem I had with his suggestions?  How do you read the paragraph aloud if your eyes are closed? 

Maybe there was some truth in his claim though.  I did laugh and I didn't feel as panicky.  So maybe he is on to someting!  You be the judge.

Once I am having a full blown panic attack I don't tell myself that I am ok.  It doesn't work for me.  In fact it makes me feel worse.  However, if I feel anxiety starting sometimes I can use this tactic to thwart a big one.

Years ago when I was having the panic attacks that were severe nothing helped.  Therapy didn't help.  Breathing deeply didn't help.  Drugs didn't help.  And there were no triggers.  After a few months of this the psychiatrist said, "Maybe there is something physical going on here."

Little did I know that I would end up in the hospital about a month later with a terrible infection, sores, fever, and some of the worst pain in my life.  But, after this became a reality.....the panic disappeared.

Work, moving, kids growing up too fast, being so far from my family, and christmas fast approaching, I have begun to feel panicky again.  Nothing like a few years ago for sure, but there is always that fear that it could turn into that again for me.  This is common thinking for a panic attack sufferer.

Instead of going to every doctor and every therapist that I can find who claim they can help with or without drugs, I have decided to take a different approach.

I am not going to run away.  I am not going to live in fear.  I am going to face it head on and communicate.  When things are overwhelming I am going to speak up and let others know that I need help and not feel guilty for asking for help.  Starting with God.  Without his help, I am nothing.