Living With Anxiety: Will Life Ever Be The Same?

Have you ever been to a crowded mall, sat in a classroom full of strangers, sat on the board of the PTO at the school? All of these things used to be part of my daily routine. However, I began having severe panic attacks when I stepped into these places and other situations.

I woke up from sleeping and could not get out of my bedroom because I was terrified. What was so scary? I could not tell you, because I do not know. I was sweating, my heart was pounding, and I was having chest pains. I thought I was having a heart attack. I called my husband and he had to come home to help me. How embarrassing.  I could not walk out of my own bedroom? This is called a panic attack and if left untreated it can lead to a severe change in the way you live your daily life, and even change your personality in a very short period.

I am not talking about feeling anxious about certain situations; I am talking about changing your daily routines and avoiding situations and people because you are afraid another attack will happen.

Panic attacks can occur at any time. Because they are unpredictable people worry between episodes intensely and dread the next attack. An attack usually peaks within 10 minutes, but some symptoms may last much longer. People who have full-blown repeated panic attacks can become very disabled by their condition and should seek treatment before they start to avoid places or situations.

When having a panic attack your body is defending itself against something. You can sweat, have shortness of breath, rapid heart beat, chest pain, feel unsteady, feel like you are choking, feel numb or tingly, experience chills or hot flashes, trembling, nausea, abdominal pain, feel disconnected, and fear "going crazy." The discomfort and a sense of danger the attack brings is so intense that people with panic disorder often believe they are having a heart attack or other life threatening illness.

For me, there is no trigger.  This is common in people who have experienced abuse as I did throughout my life. Sexual, emotional or verbal abuse can lead to anxiety. Some people think they are strong and can handle it. However, it can take years for a panic disorder to fully develop.

Those who have an anxiety condition often feel out of control.  They get sick more often leading to more doctors. They are quick to get angry, regularly feel unsettled and overwhelmed. Some feel disconnected or detached from reality and life, and often feel they are on the edge of losing control. They are not reliable because their symptoms may prevent them from following through. They may live a restricted lifestyle, feel like life is passing them by, and question their faith and God's presence in their lives.

The good news? There is treatment for panic attacks. It includes medications and a type of psychotherapy known as cognitive behavioral therapy. This therapy teaches people how to view panic attacks differently and demonstrates ways to reduce anxiety.

However, finding help is not always easy. Even people who may have medical coverage run into barriers because doctors don't always recognize the symptoms, the symptoms sometimes interfere with the person suffering getting help, and the help needed may not be available in their area. Long waiting lists and the stigma attached to mental illness sometimes make the person wish to avoid any association with it.

Treatment of abuse brings relief, peace and healing. The survivors of abuse can live healthier and learn to cope with life's challenges with dignity and success. They can break the generational cycle of abuse and experience the joy of healthy relationships.

I am not sure why I began suffering with panic attacks. After treatment I am able to grocery shop by myself. I haven't missed a single class. I sleep better at night. I feel more like me. A new me, without the baggage that brings on these attacks. This is what all sufferers of panic attacks want.

If you are a person, suffering from panic attacks do not leave them untreated. So many other bad things can start happening and the longer you are in denial, the worse you feel. I became a different person in the same body. My brain had to be reprogrammed and it took time, but I am worth it. Now I am looking forward to getting back to my life.