Panic Attacks

Panic Attacks What They Are and What to Do

#16 Guest_crying angel_*

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Posted 06 August 2001 - 08:03 AM

Thank you so much ((Mistral))

I read this before but I've just started having panic attacks. Being armed with this information makes me much less afraid.

*safe hugs*
CA

#17 red line

Gnomey

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Posted 15 August 2002 - 01:11 AM

Does anyone know a correlation between "panic disorder " and abuse? I have been diagnosed with panic disorder (which is where the brain's fight or flight mechanisms get messed up and a perfectly normal situation (without a trigger) can provoke a panic attack.) I used to have them several times a day (and be absloutely deblitated) but with therapy, klonopin and accupuncture they are much more under control. I have read some research on how PTSD can actually change our brain patterns. How stress has a physical reaction on our bodies. Does anyone know of any other research about this?

#18 Guest_choirgirl_*

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Posted 17 October 2002 - 02:18 PM

Bobbi, that's a good point. When I get a panic attack, I always feel like I'll never get through it, it will never end. But it always does.

#19 Francesca

Professor of Bitchology and Gettin' Ugly

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Posted 10 December 2002 - 10:45 AM

I had a panic attack yesterday. I wish I would have had some of these tips. First full exam since the incident. I guess it hit me harder than I thought. Luckily, the nurse was aware of my situation and helped me through it. But thanks for the advice in this thread. I can use it next time I come upon a big obstacle.

#20 Cira

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Posted 04 March 2003 - 11:55 PM

I don't have any suggestions that haven't been mentioned already, but I do have an ironic observation to make. I read somewhere (here, I'm sure) that Kava Kava helps. So, I bought a bottle, & started keeping a couple in my pocket or purse at all times.

And guess what? It really helps! I haven't had a panic attack since I bought it! lol. Oh, the irony...**sigh**

#21 Jessica

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Posted 31 March 2003 - 05:36 PM

Just wanted to update that this acupressure technique has been working well for me. Also, yesterday, my friend put some "ear seeds" in my ears for additional help with my panic attacks. They are little gold balls, with stickers on them, placed at specific points on/inside the ears. I've had a very stressful day, and just got really triggered reading a post on the main forum...but I haven't had a panic attack yet. This is amazing! Like I said last week, I'll let you know how the actual acupuncture appointment goes.

Much Love,
Yemaya

#22 Guest__*

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Posted 24 June 2001 - 05:10 PM

Thanks Mistral. After reading this post, I have decided you are right. I am having panic attacks. Will try and use your suggestions to calm them.

Natalie

#23 Guest__*

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Posted 08 August 2001 - 11:12 PM

Hi peole

Just boosting this up for MzLizz.

Mistral, you always put up such healing, wonderful threads.

Thankyou.

Love

Rachel xxx

#24 Laney

I'll find strength in pain

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Posted 05 August 2002 - 11:18 AM

booost

#25 Guest__*

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Posted 13 October 2002 - 08:19 PM

A boost and some more coping techniques, insight, etc. I am also diagnosed with panic disorder. I have had panic attacks for years, so far back that I can't remember my first one. In the beginning they were few and far between, but since June of this year, after the most severe attack I've ever had, they are much more frequent and coupled with a constant state of high anxiety that stops just short of being panic.

I tried meds - 4 different kinds - all with even worse side effects than the actual attacks. I am now in cognitive behavioral therapy and it is slowly, but surely, helping. It is something I highly suggest. I also recommend finding some good audiotapes and/or books on boosting your self esteem. I rented an audiotape series from the library (free!) and I listen to it every day when I am in my car. I find that it helps me feel so much more empowered, which is something that we, as survivors, desperately need.

Some of my own coping techniques are: Becoming educated about the disorder. I read everything I can about it, learn about the symptoms (in order to remind myself that what I am feeling is NOT a heart attack or a stroke, etc, other peoples' fears, techniques, etc. It really helps to know that I am not a "weirdo" and that many, many others suffer from this disorder.

When I feel an attack coming on, something that really helps is playing a game, usually online. It keeps my mind and body focused on something other than my physical symptoms. Another thing that helps is motion. Rocking back and forth, hugging myself, writing, etc. Helps to expel some of that excess adrenaline. I have a problem with dissociating, so making sure that I stay grounded is a big thing for me. I try to touch and feel "real" things around me, talk to someone, touch myself, touch someone else. And the most helpful coping technique I have is to constantly remind myself that this is only temporary. It WILL pass. I have had numerous attacks and I have gotten through each and every one of them - and you will too.

(((HUGS))) to you all.

Bobbi

#26 Guest__*

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Posted 30 November 2002 - 06:01 PM

((((gettingittogether))))

#27 Cira

One Girl Army

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Posted 10 February 2003 - 03:04 AM

Just a ***boost*** so I can actually find this again when I have time to read it all. :)

#28 Guest_choirgirl_*

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Posted 06 March 2003 - 04:22 PM

small comment (not very related, but I wanted to mention it):
a lot of countries (US, UK, Germany, some other European countries) are either banning Kava Kava or at least advising against taking it because they think it may cause serious liver damage in isolated cases of healthy people. just thought you might like to know that. (found this out when I was looking into it this past summer. I also thought it might be a good way to calm down.)

Also... (since I want to at least mention something about the topic) I like to hug or pet stuffed animals when I'm upset. I've also been finding calming music really helping me with anxiety lately. If I'm getting anxious, I'll put in a mix cd of calm music. Since I've been using it for a while, my body has kind of gotten used to "this means you should be calm." doesn't always work, but it at least makes me calm enough to concentrate on my next move. if you want suggestions of songs, feel free to e-mail me. :)