Anyone else ever suffered with panic attacks?

[SuzeQuze]

Originally Posted by Gypsy-Rhiannon

Thanks everyone. It's good to know I'm not alone. Maybe this is a sign that I need to try to rid myself of some of the stress in my life

Right on! I think in this modern age we are always thinking, "If only I could do more." but that is not a healthy way to think. We really have to strategize for doing less and being just as effective.

I had panic attacks during a short period in my life when I was trying to end an unhealthy relationship. For me it was about abandonment issues and also commitment issues. They were butting heads and it was awful. Breathing exercises are the best non drug way to beat them. If you google "the relaxation response" you'll probably find alot of information. It is physiologically impossible to have an attack when in a state of relaxation.

My lifelong problem though was chronic anxiety. I was basically anxious at all times. This due to a biological predisposition and being brought up in a way that encouraged panic. I know that sounds odd but it's true. I've overcome it alot through medication and talk therapy. I got so bad that talking alone didn't help, I needed medication. I often think now how wonderful it is to be anxiety free. What a blessing. Not that I never have it but it is no longer debilitating.

Cognitive therapy is a great way to beat this because you basically talk yourself into becoming relaxed. "I'm not dying. The world is not ending." Etc. Also working on the emotional and lifestyle issues that are setting you up for them helps a great deal.

Anxiety is more prevalent in this modern age and that is due to our fast-paced lifestyle and being cut off from our social ties. So increasing your healthy social network helps alot. I am still working on this and it is very difficult when, in my family, everyone is so anxious! Then of course you are attracted to people like your family without even realizing it so my friends also have issues with anxiety. At this point I'm realizing that I can't be friends with people that have these huge issues and do nothing about them. You can be someone's friend or their therapist but not both.

Here are some suggested lifestyle changes from drweil.com:

Suggested Lifestyle Changes

*Breathing exercises are one of the best single anti-anxiety measures. Many people experiencing anxiety tend to hold their breath or hyperventilate without being conscious of their actions. Controlling breathing and breath work can offer an immediate lessening of anxiety and a sense of empowerment. The yogic relaxing breath is perhaps the best tool to use in addressing GAD, and the exercise I recommend as the cornerstone of any relaxation program.

*Meditation can help lessen the effect of GAD by training one to focus on the present moment, thus keeping minds off fears. Meditating on a regular basis can result in significant, long-term reduction of anxiety.
Eliminating all sources of caffeine and stimulants from the diet can markedly reduce symptoms, and is especially helpful in those who are stimulant sensitive.

*Cognitive behavioral therapy can help those with GAD to recognize distorted patterns of thinking and adopt healthy coping skills.

*Journaling anxious thoughts, worries and symptoms can help reduce stress, identify unfounded fears and monitor progress.

*Regular daily exercise is another excellent way to combat anxiety. Exercises such as brisk walking and moderate strength training can reduce stress and anxiety, and offer a healthy distraction from negative thoughts.

*Taking a "media break" (by eliminating TV news bulletins, the Internet, and newspapers and new magazines) can help anyone with anxiety. A week without "negative" news can teach someone they have choices in how much information they are exposed to, as well as how they process news.

There is alot more good information about anxiety on his site. It tends to be the sister of depression.

http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/id/ART00695