Hands up if you have serious anxiety/depression/panic disorders in life.

[Locut0s]

Sorry for the long post. I've posted this in anxiety/depression forums and that's really where it belongs but I was also interested to see how many DUers have had anxiety/depression problems in their lives. If you don't feel like it don't feel like you have to read the rest, just post about your own problems.

I've been battling anxiety and depression for at least 10 of my 22 years and maybe more. For me the focal point has always been a mixture of social phobia and a diffuse anxiety related to school. I've always had trouble getting myself to go to school, when I was young I simply complained a lot about hating school but in hindsight that was most likely also anxiety. It's interesting that I have so much problem with school as I'm actually a very good student when things do not overwhelm me. A large part of the problem probably stems from the fact that I'm a perfectionist. If you looked at my grades in school during the early years you would have seen a strange pattern, lot's of A's and A+'s intermixed with lots of 0's where I simply gave up on some assignment and didn't hand it in. In grade 10 my problem came to a head and I dropped out of high school. A year latter I was back at a different school and what followed was probably 2 of the best years I've had. For the most part I was happy, had friends and didn't worry overly much. The result was that I graduated High School with very good marks and managed to get into a good university. I hope it doesn't sound like I'm trying to brag here, I'm not I'm just trying to set the stage.

From there everything went downhill. Since then I've managed to drop out of university a total of 4 times, thankfully one year I was able to get erased from my record, but my GPA has been shot to hell anyways. This year things didn't look to bad, I'd managed to finish one semester and am just at the tail end of another semester, then a week ago disaster struck. Out of the blue I started getting really bad Panic attacks. Now I've known diffuse anxiety and depression for most of my life but have never suffered panic attacks until a week ago. Since then I've had one or two almost every day. It got so bad that I went to the emergency room twice but thankfully managed to calm myself down enough that I didn't actually ever need their services. I've been feeling like I'm having a heart attack for the past week and in fact went to the local clinic several times to rule out anything physical. All the blood work and the EKG I had done came back negative and the doctors say my heart sounds perfectly normal and I have normal blood pressure. I was not, and am still not completely convinced, that there is not something physically wrong with me but I know for sure that I am also suffering from serious panic attacks no mater what, if anything, is bringing them on. Currently I'm on a beta blocker for the heart palpitations, feels like my heart is going to stop at any minute. Today I went to the doctor and he prescribed Paxil and some Adivan for the immediate symptoms of panic. I've taken Paxil before with some positive effect. I just hope to God that I can manage with this through the next few week, the final exams, and not waste yet ANOTHER year. If that happens I really don't know what the hell I'd do.

After reading posts on other forums I'm starting to wonder if I am suffering from PVC (premature ventricular contraction) as one of the things that often start one of these panic attacks is the feeling that my heart has stopped and I can't get any air. Then I suddenly need to gasp for breath for a second, after that I'm a mess for the next 1-2 hours. The 2 doctors I went to listened to my heart and as I said also gave me an EKG all of which were normal. If I had something seriously wrong you would think that it would have shown up. But if it was PVC it would only show up now and again. Anyways I'm hopping these are panic attacks as that I can at least learn to handle. I'm going to start the Paxil tomorrow and will take an adivan tonight to get to sleep.

[GreenPartyVoter]

1. I do. :^( Good luck getting through all this stuff *hugs*

[Wapsie B]

2. Here!

I finally got sick and tired of being stressed out and not knowing what was going on. When it finally started affecting my sleep(something that I don't screw around with)it was time to get help.
Wellbutrin has done wonders for me.

[driver8]

3. Wellbutrin and Effexor have helped me...

Get help immediately -- do not try and diagnose yourself. I was suffering from depression and anxiety and since I have been taking these meds, I feel like a totally different person. Plus, I have no problems sleeping at all.

I would suggest first getting a physical. Make sure you tell your doctor all of the problems you have been experiencing. They often have resources that you won't have and hopefully he/she can point you in the right direction.

Keep us posted on how you are doing. Good Luck!!

[driver8]

5. Ok...I'm an idiot.

I skimmed the last part of the post and did not read the part where it said that you had already been to a doctor.

Good luck -- I hope things work out for you.

[Locut0s]

12. No idot at all.

That was an overly long post, one that I knew a lot of people would skim, or skip. As for going to the doctor I have indeed had several examinations and an EKG as I mentioned, as well as blood tests. There are a few other things I wouldn't mind ruling out however it is starting to look like panic/anxiety is the problem. The symptoms I describe are for the most part classic panic attack symptoms as well as symptoms of something much worse, heart problems or respiratory problems. However a really serious problem would most likely show up even in a cursory exam. Also panic attacks do fit nicely, unfortunately, with my past psychology and family history.

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

17. Count me in. Wellbutrin and Xanax have helped.

Anxiety and depression suck, but thank G-d for meds and therapy.

[BelleCarolinaPeridot]

4. I have suffered from all the above .

:hug: I am 24 years old . And 2004 was the first good year that I had in a long time . Everything started to hit rock bottom once I got into college . I left college after one year . I moved back home and got a job . Things got even worse for me . Then in 2000 I moved out of the country to get myself better . It was a long fight - I am not on any medications or anything . I have my bad days , but its far from where I have been . ( BTW this is the abbreviated version of my story ) Although I did suffer a panic attack this past January - and that was because of too much stress . But I am alright now . I hope that everything gets better for you . PM if you want :) Your story sounds like mine .

[Locut0s]

11. Thanks for the reply. Perhaps you should take a look at medication and or

therapy. I'm currently not seeing a therapist as the last time I did the person I saw was no help at all. However I know others benefit a lot from talk therapy, though it's not really my kind of thing. Drugs also help millions of others, in some cases literally saving their lives. Until these panic attacks I too was of the "handle it yourself" mentality. I had difficulty admitting to others I had a problem and was convinced that I could handle this myself. These panic attacks however have changed my mind about that.

[BelleCarolinaPeridot]

16. I fear medication for a lot of reasons .

On one side I want to be better ( I am happy now ) and on the other side I don't want to be co-dependant on a pill to help me smile .

[Locut0s]

26. I understand, if you're happy then that's all that maters, however..

If you do feel down for any significant period of time latter you might still want to consider it. Most antidepressants out there are not of the "drug you up" type. By that I mean you aren't going to feel all happy and triply on them, in fact aside from the side effect you may not realize you are on them. That being said I understand you're unwillingness to be dependant on them, I feel the same way.

[Bullwinkle925]

41. However, if you had diabetes you would take your med. wouldn't you?

It's the same thing.

[BelleCarolinaPeridot]

46. True ... but I still have my own personal reasons .

[Bullwinkle925]

71. I have a friend who often goes off her meds for depression.

She thought the same as yourself - didn't want to rely on a pill for her happiness. Her Dr. said the same to her about diabetes. Unfortunately people still look at depression as an issue that they should be able to control on their own - and not as a condition of chemical imbalances in the brain that can be controlled by proper medication.

Good luck to you.:)

[_TJ_]

42. Everyone is different

If you need meds you need meds. Sadly, most people with
full-on clinical depression need drugs and/or therapy :(

[Cannikin]

6. Symbyax and Zyprexa for me!

[_TJ_]

36. NO NOT OLANZAPINE!

My sister put on 50 lbs on that. I bet you can't stop eating
in the evenings :D

[Cannikin]

53. fortunately, I needed a little bit of the weight.

But I do have a little bit settling around the mid section that I could live without!

[Deja Q]

7. Anxiety, depression, I'm a social cripple. We need each other.

:hug:

[Catchawave]

8. We have a DU Mental Health Group here.....

But I think you have to be a donor to post? I'll be happy to answer your post on that forum :)

[Wat_Tyler]

9. Yeah - I was diagnosed with a Generalized Anxiety Disorder a few years

back. Pretty mild, though - I get worked up over stupid little things, and then worry overmuch about things no-one else even cares about, so it's not that bad really.

[rox63]

10. Long-time depression & anxiety sufferer here

And it sucks. But I've had some relief through medication and therapy. No, it's not perfect. But now at least it's mostly manageable. I've been on Effexor for 8 years, and it has literally saved my life. I hope you find something that works for you.

[Locut0s]

14. Good to hear you are doing better.

As I was saying in my original post I'm going to start off taking Paxil because I've taken it before without serious side effects and it did seem to have at least some benefit then. Also Paxil did wonders for my father when he had a nervous breakdown of sorts himself a few years back. So similar Genetics is always a good place to start. I took Effexor a while back for a little while along with a beta blocker but found I was sleeping all the time so I went off of it, I probably didn't stay on long enough as you need to keep on these SSRI's at least a month before you really know.

[rox63]

63. Weird how it acts so differently for some people

The Effexor wakes me up at night, so I have to take Trazadone at bedtime to help me sleep. But since the Effexor has been so effective on the depression and anxiety, I really didn't want to change meds over the sleeplessness.

[_TJ_]

64. Effexor is a wacky drug

My sister did OKish on it for depression but I couldn't STAND it - it
made my anxiety 10 times worse. My legs and arms ACHED while I
was on it too - it was truly horrible. :(

But hey - there are zillions of other drugs to try :D

[Ellen Forradalom]

13. Lifelong bipolar bear here.

Panic attacks in my early 20s. They did eventually go away, thank God.

[samplegirl]

15. Your certainly not alone

God reading your post I felt as though i wrote it myself.
Mine all started during about 10th grade of high school had a bad
panic attack at school and had to go home. For twenty some odd
years off and on I have suffered the pangs of panic attacks and
depression.
I've had all the same tests you have had which were all normal.
Sometimes I go for long periods without one.......then wham!!!
I dont know which comes first the panic or the depression.
This has really altered my life to some degree at times. Im a
very outgoing social person. Drive and passion for life.
Drs. beleive panic is sometimes from long periods of stress. Not
to say that stress is not a contributing factor, but I dont buy
that completely.
I have done some research on my own though. Did you know that
most people with anxiety disorders and depression suffer some
form of low thyroid.
To test this yourself keep a thermometer next to your bed in the
morning (underarmpit) for 10 min. without getting up or moving.
If your temp is below 97.6 or lower you could be without even
knowing it. I've told the Drs. mine is low alot of times but
thyroid tests check out fine which in some cases....low or borderline
dont always show up through bloodwork. I dont have alot of faith
in antidepressants as they work for awhile then seem to do nothing.
I truly beleive something is missing nutritionally. I've had some
good luck with supplements. B12 is excellent and has a calming effect. Calcium & Magnesium together help with heart palps.
I've also had bad experiences with some antidepressants. Effexor
actually gave me panic attacks. This one I am taking now is the
best one I have been on ever its called Remaron and it is for
depression and panic. Seems to really really helped but everyones
body is different. Some people need seratonin uptake and some
need something more calming. Sometimes I can control an attack
and sometimes I cant. You have my sympathy as this is just a revolving door sometimes. Hang in there! Its usually people
with alot of ambiton that suffer with panic. Sometimes our brain
just wont cooperate.

[SCRUBDASHRUB]

20. Interesting about the thyroid thing. My dr. has checked me for that

before I even went on any meds for GAD/depression, but nothing has come up. I do suffer from ulcerative colitis, which is aggravated by stress, so it's like a vicious cycle. Peace of mind seems like such a rare commodity these days, huh?

[kiraboo]

18. Panic attacks, clinical depression, suicidal, stress-

related IBS reporting in. The good news is that there are ways to deal with all of the above if you are proactive. Yep, it's hard to be proactive when you're depressed but those of us who have a lifelong problem recognize when we're sinking. A good relationship with my doctor and a willingness to do some of the work myself and not simply rely on medication, is what I believe has helped me stay alive, sane and usually really happy as I move into my forties. Medication helps, but so do: exercise, positive thinking, healthy eating and behavior. Drinking or bingeing in response to sadness or loneliness is guaranteed to screw you up even further. And the #1 rule I've learned through all this is that most things in this life pass away, good and bad. There are cycles, and if you hold on through the bad you will eventually reach the good. LOL until the terminal cancer gets you! Sorry, a bit of morbid humor.

[samplegirl]

21. You dont know how many times

I tell myself this to shall pass. Good advice!

[Nikia]

19. I suffer from anxiety disorders

I had my first panic attack shortly after 9/11 although I have had anxiety all my life. It wasn't until that point though that my anxiety became life impairing, as opposed to just messing up a couple important performance related things for me. They tried me on a couple different antidepressents, which all caused weird things unacceptable side effects. The beta blocker they gave me, really seemed to help significantly (I also had stage I hypertension). They also gave me aprazalam (Xanax) to take in case of a panic attack. Some people take it regularly to prevent panic and lower general anxiety, but it is addictive and should not be taken for a long periods of time. I also went through group therapy that spring, which helped a lot. I was doing much better until my grandfather died last summer, I got sick with digestive problems, and my husband became depressed. Now, I am in individual therapy.
Be sure physical, even small physical problems are ruled out. Small physical problems can be misinterpreted by the body as major and cause panic attacks. Good luck.

[Beware the Beast Man]

22. Anxiety, panic attacks, mild depression.

I noticed the leitmotif for my axiety stems from control issues. I guess I'm unknowingly a control freak. If I'm feeling uppity it usually has to do with something I cannot immediately control (like say, politics and world affairs :)). I guess I fear losing control of my surroundings, and that's the root of it all.

As for meds, I'm only on Zoloft 50 mg. It pretty much wiped out the panic attacks, but I still get the general anxiety a lot of the time. May I recommend a good book? It's called "The Anxiety and Phobia Workbook," and it can really help you suss out some of your problems. The author takes a holistic approach to coping with anxiety disorders with meds as a last resort. You may find it useful:
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/157224223X/qid=1112409652/sr=2-1/ref=pd_bbs_b_2_1/103-7829868-3127867

Anyway, you're definitely not alone, and it can be treated and controlled. :hi:

[KittyWampus]

23. Consult An Acupuncturist. It's NOT All About Pharmaceuticals

Also, look into Nutritonal therapy. What we eat does effect our emotional & physiological responses.

And then there's stuff like Yoga & Tai Chi.

Don't expect a magic pill to fix things.

Drugs can help when we get stuck in negative loop... but they aren't a long term solution.

[Locut0s]

32. I respect those who take a naturopathic approach, however

that is not my type of thing. I agree however the diet and exercise can play a big role in your emotional life and these are things I'm going to have to look at. I also believe that meditation can help with anxiety. However I'm a scientific minded (non spiritural) type and not one who goes for most of the naturopathic approaches like acupuncture, aroma therapy, magnetic healing etc..

[_TJ_]

43. Did you have depression and panic attacks

Did acupuncture cure you?

[KittyWampus]

47. Yes, And Acupuncture Helps The Underlying Problems, Along With Diet

exercise and meditation.

I also went to a regular doctor to have a physical and tests done.

[Samantha]

24. At age 32 I was diagnosed with having a panic attack

I insisted that I had problems because I sat in an office situated over a very hot factory. The air went out in the factory during the hot summer time. I think over a period of one week's time, I became dehydrated and did not realize it. That Friday, I had some sort of tremendous breathing problem and ended up in the hospital. I think they did not know what was wrong and simply started treating me for this disorder. I continued to take Ativan, but on my own, asked for the doctor to cut the dosage in half.

Over a long period of time, I have read up on anxiety problems and stress-related disorders, simply because I felt unsure what the doctors were telling me were true. In this process, and in the process of talking to psychotherapists, I have learned some interesting things:

One's mental well-being and his or her emotional well-being run into a circle. If a person develops a physical problem, the worry or stress over that problem causes anxiety and/or stress overload. Conversely, if a person is experiencing a huge amount of stress, say for instance, a terribly difficult job, the sub-conscious refers the stress to the weakest part of the body. In my particular case, that happens to be my teeth (and/or jaw). Most people refer their stress to their stomachs or their hearts, so I am lucky I do not do this. In times of great stress, usually in my case, job related, I grind the heck out of my teeth. I have developed TMJ. Ativan is also a muscle relaxant and it relaxes the muscles in my jaw when they start into spasms.

However, the primary cause of panic attacks is a fear of death. I personally do not have this. I almost drowned once and was amazed I felt no fear. I am very secure in my religous foundation, and I do not worry about dying.

Panic attacks are also caused by too much caffeine. Some people have nervous systems which cannot tolerate even a single cup of coffee per day. I drink four cups per day. I believe my nervous system has an intolerance fo caffeine, but since I take a low dosage of Ativan, I can get away with the caffeine (I do love my coffee).

The post I read about about the underactive thyroid is one I found interesting. I have not come across this before as a problem which can cause consequences often confused with anxiety attacks. I have been told a couple of times I was borderline in this area, but recently my daughter has developed problems with an underactive thyroid. She also stresses quite a bit, but then, she's an overachiever.

A lack of proper diet and an adequate amount of sleep also make one less tolerant of life's stresses.

I hope you do your own research, perhaps consult a psychotherapist, but realize this: Ativan is addictive. Once you start it, you cannot stop it suddenly without risking a heart attack. You might not want to take, for instance, 2 mils a day, if one will do you. Sometimes something like this is prescribed until a person works through his or her problem and the medication can then be discontinued.

Good luck in your quest to find your own information and learn what is causing you discomfort in your life. I hope this info helps.

[Queen Jane]

25. damn, do i relate to this.

i'm fortunate in that i don't have panic attacks - i have depression, anxiety, primarily social. i take Effexor, and it's probably saved my life.

i relate to your school difficulties. my problems hit me in college, around 1998...i stayed in school, kept failing classes for stupid reasons like not handing in my final paper! even though i would write and write on that paper, i'd be so close - it was due in 2 hours...but i wouldn't finish it. eventually, after slaughtering my gpa, i left school, and only today i turned in my application to go back and finish my B.A.

i'm sorry, i'm talking about myself and i'm not helping you. pm me if you'd like...and best of luck. :hug:

[Locut0s]

Thanks for the reply. Yes that does sound similar. Part of the problem.

when you are in this situation is that I find I've dug myself an emotional and academic hole, both of which I need to climb out of to feel completely better about myself. They have a habit of feeding on each other, anxiety causes me to not study enough and get lower grades than I should, lower grades cause anxiety etc..

[_TJ_]

45. I feel SO SO sorry for you

My panic attacks didn't start til I was 27 (that's very common)

It must be AWFUL to go through this when you are in your teens
and school means SO much. :(

:hug:

[Locut0s]

62. Actually I'm 22, 23 in a few days :-)

[_TJ_]

44. I think depression is worse...

...if it's proper clinical depression. My sis has it and she's in
a much worse way than I am with panic disorder :(

[flamingyouth]

27. Good luck with everything

I've had severe anxiety for most of my life. I can function but sometimes it's very hard. I am lucky that I have a good support system and some good professionals who help me.

I recommend yoga and meditation, as well as regular exercise, which can be a big help.

Best of luck to you. :hug:

[Locut0s]

28. Thanks!

Others have also recommended meditation and I am thinking of taking that up. As for exercise that is something I definitely need to do. About a year back I got on an exercise thing and managed to loose almost 100 lbs, in fact I lost way to much and almost because anorexic again probably a symptom of my anxiety. However since then I've put almost all of it back on. Once things settle down with school in a week or two I do plan on starting up an exercise regiment again.

[_TJ_]

52. Hi Flamingyouth

Do you get panic attacks too or is it chronic worry? Both are
AWFUL!

Anxiety can lead to panic attacks so easily. :(

[skygazer]

29. Good luck to you from a fellow sufferer

I've suffered for some 30 years from what has been variously diagnosed as severe and chronic depression, bipolar, PTSD and anxiety disorder. I think the truth is that I embody some of all of those things.

The past six years have been pretty much symptom free (for the first time in my life). I'm not sure why - I try not to question it because it feels so good and I don't want to jinx it.

Now I'm going through a whole series of things designed to stress me out and I can feel myself slipping. It sucks. I don't want to go back to the meds but I will if I have to - anything is better than going to that dark and lonely place I know so well.

Panic attacks are horrible. I know them well. I hope the meds help you - Paxil did actually help me when I was suffering from them. A lot of times, it takes a while to get the dosage right for the individual but keep at it. It's hard to be pro-active when you just want to hide in a corner but unfortunately, you have to make yourself do it.

Know that you're not alone - that one thing can make such a difference. :hug:

[Locut0s]

30. Thanks for the support!

Yes it is very hard to push yourself to be proactive in such circumstances. Luckily, or unluckily depending on how you look at it, my current situation does not involve a large element of depression. So as long as I can keep the panic attacks and anxiety in check I should be OK at least for finishing the final exams in the next few weeks. I also know what it's like to be really depressed though :(

[_TJ_]

31. Panic Attacks here

for just about 3 years (I get about 5-10 good 'uns most days )

[Locut0s]

35. Damn 5-10 a day! I was having problems with 2-3 a day..

however whatever I was having, breathing difficulties, hyper awareness of my heart, dizziness etc.. would last for many hours. So when I do get them they eat up a good part of my day.

[_TJ_]

37. When they go on for years and years...

...and you don't die or suffer any lasting harm you stop fearing
them. Honestly the first 6 months are the WORST.

Don't fear them - they are HARMLESS HARMLESS HARMLESS. They
just FEEL really bad.

No one EVER died from a panic attack. True dat!

Edit: Also, when you don't fear them they get MUCH milder - fear
FEEDS and FUELS a panic attack. Fear makes them 10 times as bad!!

[Nikia]

49. You have to learn how to deep breath

Breath through your nose. Take deep breaths. Inhale 5 counts. Exhale 5 counts. Practice this at least three times a day for a few minutes each time. When you have a panic attack do this right. It may be difficult to do because you are panicking. That's why you need to practice it when you aren't panicking. When I have been able to do this, my panic attacks are much shorter without the help of drugs which might take a little while to absorb. If your breathing gets out of control when you have a panic attack, you are likely to have long ones. You start suffering from a real medical problem as your oxygen and carbon dioxide levels go out of whack. This leads to more physical symtoms and increased panic. One emergency room doctor told me not to be afraid though even if that happens. Sit down. If you pass out, your body will self correct. One of my friends also recommended breathing into a bag for a while.

[WindRavenX]

33. just diagnosed with depression

Which I already knew, for a while. The election pretty much sent me on a bad downhill.
For me, it helps to just talk to professionals...
It doesn't suprise me to see a lot of DUers have depression or other mental disorders; there's a lot of speculation that intelligence and emotional awareness does seem to increase an occurance of depression.

[Locut0s]

38. I agree. I don't know if it's a bad sign but I just can't get along with..

people who have never suffered at least some kind of emotional problem in their lives. It doesn't have to be anything dramatic, but I find that those who have sailed through life without a care are more often than not lacking in compassion and if I dare say so more often right wing. I don't really blame them for this, I would be the same way if I had never had any problems and sailed straight from high school to a college education then straight on to a cushy job. It's not that all people who have it easy are like this I do find a greater number are. These are the people who when you open up to them about some emotional difficulties you are having reply with a "well perk yourself by buddy, go read a good book, have a bath, take your mind of it" or worse "so what, I've been down before, you know what, I just get back to work and forget about it". Or they just stand there looking at you like you're a failure. These people have never known what it's like to feel real anxiety or depression.

[WindRavenX]

39. apthetic people

Yup, that's my major problem- I can't deal with people who just don't care about things.
I don't understand how people can just tune out the world and act like nothing's wrong; I need people who feel and understand that the world is more than just the next big shopping spree at Abercrombie or J.Crew...
I need aware people.
Being aware hurts, though. But being together makes it better :hug:

[_TJ_]

40. Me too!!

I was bullied and mistreated when I was a kid. It sucked big time
but I did learn compassion. I realised what pain was - and I never
want to inflict it on other people.

[_TJ_]

34. Looks like you are developing panic disorder

Just like me :D

Seriously, I'm 99% sure your heart is fine. People who have so
much worry and anxiety in their lives are VERY prone to getting
panic attacks. I was a worrier for most of my life - so it's
no surprise I ended up with it. You seem to be in a similar
boat to me.

When I get a doozy I can't breath either :(

Edit: Also, I hope you are seeing a psychiatrist - don't let
your family doctor treat this - you need an EXPERT! Seriously.

[LeftPeopleFinishFirst]

48. me

nt

[_TJ_]

50. Would you like to share your story?

we would all be very happy to hear it. :hug:

[bigwillq]

51. Recently started having panic attacks

Since about Jan. of this year. Some scary stuff.

Hope your situation improves.:hug:

[Cadence]

54. Get the book The Edge Effect

by Dr. Eric Braverman. I've seen Paxil literally destroy people trying to get off it once they start.

You're probably low on the brain chemical Gabba. I don't have time to make a lengthy post about my history but I've suffered from severe PTSD and panic attacks for years. I found this book.. took the test in it and followed what was recommended. Now ..no panic and my PTSD symptoms.. the ones therapy wasn't helping with.. are all but gone.

Gabba is what tells the brain stop firing when we've experienced flight or fight. Inositol which is essentially a B vitamin is a precursor to Gabba and will help your brain calm down tremendously. I strongly recommend getting that book if you can!!!

Also try communicating with the anxiety to see if you can get to the source. When an attack happens.. try getting in front of the computer and giving it a voice by letting the anxiety/terror type or talk. Ask yourself if this is something from the past and what it's trying to tell you. See if you get any visuals and if you do.. go with them no matter how weird they may seem.

Another good book is The Developing Mind by Daniel Siegel. Awesome information for why the brain does things like this. Good luck!

[_TJ_]

57. Hi Cadence

Can you get inositol suppliments or what exactly did you need
to do?

thanks :D

[Cooley Hurd]

55. You're not alone, that's for sure.

I went undiagnosed up until the age of 35. Only after having a panic attack so severe that I got dizzy and fell over (ala Tony Soprano) did I get it checked out. Five years later and I've never felt better in my life!:hi:

You'll make it. We all do, my friend.:hug:

[_TJ_]

56. What fixed you up Cooley? nt

[Cooley Hurd]

58. An excellent psychiatrist and moderate doses of Lexapro...

I suffered for years, despite knowing how bipolar disorders ran in my family (I was in denial - I didn't want to think of myself as "defective"). I was even suicidal at one point.

I started treatment two years ago and now I feel like a God (okay, I haven't been treated for my deity disorder yet... it's on my list...:D)

[_TJ_]

59. My sister is on Lex!!!

It's goddamn magic that stuff! I was on Celexa before - which is
basically a weak version of lex - but it didn't help :(

[VOX]

60. I've borne the anxiety-disorder monkey on my back for far too long.

Locut0s, I hear you loud and clear, and absolutely recognize your story -- it's a very familiar one. Sounds like you're getting the treatment you need to help manage your panic disorder. My only advice is to stick to your management regimen (whatever works for you) and to not get caught in the trap of avoidance behaviors and thus putting limitations on your life.

I'm finally getting my life back after literally decades of having an anxiety disorder dictate my behavior and priorities. Everything I've done and thought -- I mean *everything* -- was influenced by the anxiety disorder: Will I be incapacitated someplace from which I cannot extricate myself? Do I have strength on any given day to make it through, should the anxiety manifests itself? Can I go here or there? Can I be with this or that person? Will they understand? Am I able to drive? At what point will my dependence on others become a burden? On and on it went, like being in a claustrophobic hall of mirrors.

I've dealt with this hand of cards since I was a teenager. My mom and her sister also had anxiety disorders and avoidance behaviors, so, IMO, it clearly has a familial component.

I've tried medication, meditation, exercise, nutrition, stress-reduction techniques, talk-therapy, etc., all with some effectiveness. I do know that the advent of SSRIs brought a major change in managing this for me. And maybe the success I've finally experienced also is a function of age and experience, too.

Not long ago, I couldn't drive my car through certain intersections unless the light was green. I would have to pull over and wait for the signal to change, because the idea of having to stop in traffic was intolerable. Yet this past year, I was finally able to go to several public events in large, crowded situations, and to have a good time and forget about the anxiety. I was able to take trips to places hundreds of miles from home, and enjoy the journey each time. Later this spring, I will be flying by helicopter to a beautiful destination. It's like taking one's first steps -- a little bit frightening, but exhilarating at the same time.

For anyone suffering with panic disorder, agoraphobia or anxiety disorder, I cannot say this enough: Do NOT give up hope. Although you will most likely have to deal with this all your days, I can tell you from deep-dish personal experience, and from hard lessons learned over the long haul, you can manage this demon, and make it a much smaller part of your daily life.

Peace and good health to all. :toast:

[_TJ_]

61. That is a beautiful story

I'm SO glad you managed to finally get on top of this. :7

I've been in a bad way for 4 years but I really think things have been getting better for me with my shrink's help this last
few months.

Lots of love :hug:

[Locut0s]

66. Thanks for the great reply. Luckily for me my problems have been..

fairly narrowly focused on issues surrounding school and now university. I've so far not developed crippling anxiety related to other aspects of my life, such as agoraphobia. However I do live a very sheltered life to begin with and I suspect that were I to try to break out of this, find a real job, get a girl friend, move out on my own, my anxiety would no doubt become a very big hindrance. At the moment I'd like to concentrate on getting me degree and then worry about other things when they come. "One thing at a time, don't try to take on the world at once" is my motto.

[Dastard Stepchild]

65. Me....

Went through a full cardiac workup in 2002. Was told that the results were not problematic, and the doctors agreed with my theory that it was anxiety related.

Terrifying, though. I can relate to what you are going through. My thoughts are with you. :hug:

[Locut0s]

67. While I am getting more assured that these are panic attacks I do want to

run to ground the possibility that it could be something purely physical that also happens to be triggering panic attacks. There are some odd symptoms that make me think there might be something else involved other than anxiety. I am to see my doctor again in 2 weeks, if I don't feel better by then I am going to ask him to check out some other things, including a more thorough cardiac test and taking a look at possible respirator problems like asthma.

[Dastard Stepchild]

68. I think that is an excellent idea...

It is always best to rule out any physical problems first, then hypothesize about what other conditions may be causing the palps.
I had the full cardiac assessment: stress test, EKG, halter monitor, event monitor, an ultrasound of my heart, and, uh... I think that is everything. They found nothing problematic that caused them any concern, and I am relieved that the physicians were as thorough and meticulous as they were.
Interestingly, when I first starting having anxiety episodes, I was also tested for asthma/allergies to see if my inability to catch my breath was a physical problem. Turns out I did have allergies, but I also suffer from a number of anxiety/phobias.

I think that it is very intelligent that you are being proactive with your health. Try to monitor your symptoms and go with your gut - if you feel you should be tested for something, make or case or find a physician that will support this.

my best to you!

[mdmc]

69. I do...

good luck with the meds.

[elshiva]

70. I have schizoaffective disorder, depression, and

anxiety. I went to a special high school because of it. I am on seroquel now.

[InvisibleTouch]

72. Agoraphobia

That's the closest label I can find, anyway, though it's not entirely accurate. "Fear of Cities" would be more accurate, but I don't think there's a psychological term for that. :)

I find more and more in recent years that I hate to step outside my front door. I have to, on a nearly daily basis, but I can't wait to get back inside. Outdoors in a deserted wilderness area is fine; outdoors where there are strangers in the vicinity, leaves me feeling exposed and threatened. I've only been accosted/assaulted a couple of times in my life, not nearly drastically enough to bring on this phobia, but it's here, none the less. The problem is the proximity of people more so than anything else. Even driving in a downtown area sends me to the verge of panic (had to do it today ... I'm still a bit freaked out), though I can drive for days on an open highway and be perfectly happy.

Comes down to an intense feeling of being on "enemy ground", I suppose, and being utterly repelled and revolted. All I can think of is, I need to get away.

But, I psyched myself into this, to some degree, and I'll have to deal with it my own way. Never would I trust a pharmacological substance in this matter, nor would tolerate any "professional" trying to talk me out of being who I am. It's a struggle, but it's my struggle, and the only one who can deal with it, is me. I made some poor choices in my living arrangements. I'll just have to set them straight.

[sakabatou]

73. I take Zoloft

for anxiety.

[Locut0s]

74. Update

Well today after classes I'm going to wear a halter monitor for 24 hrs or so. Yesterday I had a bad experience where my heart stopped for about 1-2 seconds then beat REALLY forcefully followed by a very rapid heart beat. My doctor said that it was probably a PAC, similar to the PVC I mentioned and probably nothing to worry about. Still it scarred the living sh!t out of me!!

[VOX]

75. Good for you for having this checked out.

Don't know if you're familiar with MVP (mitral-valve prolapse). It's an utterly benign condition (google around to get info), but it does have a very strong connection with anxiety/panic attacks.

If you have MVP, you heart will "flutter," feel like it's "skipped a beat" or like it's bouncing around in your chest. It can make you shoot up out of your chair with alarm.

Again, this is utterly benign -- if you should be diagnosed with MVP, the only thing you have to do is medicate with antibiotics prior to dental work.

Good luck, and hang in there -- :thumbsup:

[Locut0s]

76. Wow thanks for the heads up on MVP. I'll have to ask my doctor about it.

However I do not fit the body type they describe at ALL. I'm a somewhat overweight male. Not a slender almost scrawny female, which seems to be Hallmark. But then many of the symptoms fit me to a tee.

Also on further reading people with MVP tend to have a clicking or murmuring sound associated with their heart beat which would be picked up by a stethoscope.

[Hell Hath No Fury]

77. I do that....

exact thing as well. For me, it ususally gets more frequent when I am under stress. My heart is completely healthy otherwise. But I know what you mean -- it;s scary as hell when it is happening. :)

[Hell Hath No Fury]

78. Panic disorder with agoraphobia and associated depression here....

I've had it since I was 28. Sixteen years is a l-o-n-g time to be dealing with it. :) On edit: I wanted to add that I ended up in the emergency room with my first major panic attack. I too thought I was having a heart attack -- constricted chest, rapid heartbeat, a numb left arm -- I thought I was looking at "the big one".

Honestly, one of the best things I ever did was take a cognitive behavioral therapy course on anxiety/panic through Kaiser. It was a look at exactly what is going on with your body that causes the sypmtoms, the thinking patterns that you develop, and tools you can use to end the symptoms. For me, it totally demystified what I had been going through for almost ten years and got me back to almost 90% of my old self. It allowed me to get off all my meds and helped me manage my disorder much more effectively.

I'll try to dig up the name of the course book we used for you -- I cannot recommend enough that you get into some sort of panic/anxiety cognitive behavioral therapy group.