BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Janie
Date: 10 Mar 10 - 06:42 PM

Not sure what your question is about?

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 08 Mar 10 - 02:17 PM

I think the words of the day are firm resolve. If there are children invovled, they must be protected from any abuse if there is any. People in these situations usually benefit from professional help. Panic and/or rage are not going to get you through what you might have to get through. Resolve to do what is right, no matter how painful, will, with the proper support..and most people are willing to give it if they understand the situation..and that includes places to stay etc. if you must move from a bad or hopeless situation. mg

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 08 Mar 10 - 03:07 AM

If you deal with the cause of the attacks, then the attacks will simply go away, Nellie, but it can be a bit of a journey to get there.

If a situation is bringing you more grief than joy, then change the situation. Yes, it may well be tough at the start, but you will grow, oh how you will grow in strength, in maturity, in self belief.

Once trust gets blown apart, it's very hard to get it back. You have to learn a new kind of trust, and that is, trust in yourself.

It would seem that already your inner self knows what may lie ahead, and your outer self is fighting against that, causing these attacks to happen.

It's extraordinarily hard when those you loved let you down, break the trust, but you WILL get through this, you will survive and come out the other side.

You have a choice here. You can remain 'Nervous Nellie' for the rest of your days, denying the very things that are causing your pain, or you can become 'NEW Nellie' and make a decision you never envisaged having to make.

It's tough, kid. I won't tell you otherwise, but it can be done.


The other way is to confront the person who's causing you such distress and tell them what's happening. If they truly love you, they will do all in their power to change what's going on, as well as being deeply upset for the pain they've caused you.

But don't spend your whole life putting up with shite. You don't deserve it.


Whichever path you choose, I wish you well.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Janie
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 09:37 PM

Good night, Nellie. Sleep well and dreamlessly.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Bill D
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 09:27 PM

I see, NN...the kind of situation where there seems to be no 'right' answer....where even the lesser evil is still evil. I was there once, 35 years ago...finally, the decision was made for me after some awkward shuffling of my little universe.
I hope there are interim ways of coping as you explore possible 'solutions'...if there is such a thing in that situation.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,hg
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 08:08 PM

NN,

"I don't think deep psychotherapy for me is going to resolve my loved one's issues."

I thought the problem lies in your response to the deception, i/e/ the panic attacks. Certainly you don't think that just changing your loved one will fix the problem you have with panic attacks. These kind of panic attacks are most definitely the fodder for psychotherapy. I suspect the deception requires a more decisive response on your part. The choices for responding must certainly be triggering your fears. Most people don't enjoy confronting others when issues must be examined worked out. Good luck.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,Nervous Nellie
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 07:37 PM

What seems to trigger the attacks, which aren't too bad by now, is anything that reminds me of being deceived.

Part of the deception has been that the loved one has justfied certain things by blaming others, then using the ensuing chaos as a cover to conceal their real actions, so the situation is far from clear.

As to seeking a new arrangement, the costs will be high, with a lot of hurt.

I can't really be more specific--

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: katlaughing
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 03:47 PM

Remember, NN, we first must take care of ourselves esp. before we are able to care for others, esp. children. We cannot solve our loved one's issues for them. If they are harmful or detrimental to our well-being it is best to seek a new arrangement with them or, in the case of very, what I call, toxic people, get away from them altogether. That might not be your situation, but I've been there and, in my case, that was the only thing which helped. Interestingly enough, that person I fled from with two very young children in tow, and I are very good friends now having connected after thirty years. So...good things can come of it all.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,Nervous Nellie
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 08:49 AM

Unfortunately, bubblyrat, I don't smoke. As for the deep psychotherapy, I don't think deep psychotherapy for me is going to resolve my loved one's issues.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: bubblyrat
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 08:06 AM

I suffered from extreme anxiety and brutal "panic attacks" for years and years----things got particularly bad when I was about 26,and had been in the Navy for ten years.Eventually,I was sent to a joint services mental hospital,and,after being in there for six months,I was medically discharged.After that,I spent more unhappy years being dosed on Librium,Valium,Barbiturates,and the mono-amine-oxidase inhibitors Marplan and Nardil (very dangerous !) !!
       Eventually, for one reason or another, I stopped smoking,and Bingo !!-----No more hyperventilation !! No more paroxysmal tachycardia !! No more ambulance rides to hospitals !! Just a simple thing like stopping smoking ! So Nellie, if you DO smoke....Quit it TODAY !!And if you are "with" someone who smokes...take drastic action ! I still very occasionally get MILD symptoms if I am close to a fire-engine or police vehicle with flashing blue lights (the lights trigger "something"),but otherwise ,my life is now totally different,and medication-free !! So there is always hope,Nellie !

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,hg
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 07:35 AM

Well NN, perhaps YOUR panic attacks require a depth psychotherapy in the manner of the late, great Herbert Strean.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,Nervous Nellie
Date: 07 Mar 10 - 05:46 AM

I've got Rescue Remedy. Interesting about the exertion and the Sodium Lactate. Meanwhile, the stressors are increasing, as I am finding that there are trust issues with a loved one that are just coming out. I suddenly don't know who this person is. I am going down a rabbit hole.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,hg
Date: 06 Mar 10 - 12:59 PM

Lots of good advice here, especially the simple paper bag.

BTW some individuals are sensitive to the byproducts of muscle exertion, namely sodium lactate. Thus, after exertion such as running, biking, stairs, sex, kickboxing, an attack will ensue that day or the next. It helps to rehydrate completely after intense physical activity.

Also, mitral valve prolapse can bring on anxiety attacks. This can be temporary or ongoing.

(PhD in anxiety disorders...)hg

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Bonzo3legs
Date: 06 Mar 10 - 07:20 AM

Rescue Remedy might help, never go to bed without it on my bedside table. My bottle has done 3 UK to Argentina trips and countless to Spain.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: katlaughing
Date: 06 Mar 10 - 12:10 AM

Bat Goddess calls challenges like these "AFGOs" as in Another Fucking Growth Opportunity!:-)

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,Nerv ous Nellie
Date: 05 Mar 10 - 11:56 PM

LadyJean--"Most important is to remember that this is just another goddam panic attack, like the last one. It will go away." That is the most important idea.   I like the "remember something complicated" and it reminded me that some POWs have said they created really elaborate routines that they'd go through in their cells every day.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: LadyJean
Date: 05 Mar 10 - 09:02 PM

I started getting panic attacks in college, where I was an octaganal peg in a triangular hole.
After my dad died, and my mom needed me, I worked out a ritual, and convinced myself that, if I did the ritual, I wouldn't have an attack.
It worked, at least most of the time. Coming from Presbyterians and Methodists, my ritual involves a prayer, which doesn't mean yours needs one. That's just what I did.
When you feel an attack coming, try to remember something complicated. I would try to remember the Scottish highland dances I did in high school. Recipes would work, or card games, or verb conjugations, or anything that will take your brain away from the damn attack.
Most important is to remember that this is just another goddam panic attack, like the last one. It will go away.
Look at it as an enemy that wants to wreck your life, and spit in it's eye.   
I had a honey of an attack a couple of years ago, coming home from the airport. I got off a very crowded bus, and into some cool, fresh air. It went away.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 05 Mar 10 - 02:52 PM

If your family events include holiday meals..one simple tip..eat first..you don't want to mix stress plus low blood sugar plus more family stress when dinners are late, too carb-loaded, etc. Stick to your eating plan, partake as you can of the holiday food and it will be calmer. mg

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,Nervous Nellie
Date: 05 Mar 10 - 12:26 PM

Things have calmed down considerably--rolled back to the "Butterflies in the stomach" level. It's a relief, but I've got a long way to go, and yes, Janie is helping me to connect to some good support. Bless her heart!

As far as the"only hang out with constructive positive people."idea, that would entail avoiding certain family entirely, and on occasion, myself;-)

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Janie
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 11:47 PM

Hi Nellie.

It is apparent that bunches of us are thinking of you and sending out lots of good energy. Let yourself soak it up!

You are absolutely not alone.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,Stringsinger
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 08:03 PM

N.N., Lox gave you some excellent advice. Start an exercise program. Walking or any physical exercise relieves pressure.

Know that you are not alone and not crazy. It happens to more people than you might think.

Gradually do the things that trigger the panic attack. Slowly, surely. You will wear down your panic reactions.

Look into Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. You can google info on this online.
You can lessen these panic attacks without drugs.

Anxiety is normal. An overabundance of it can be lessened.

A lot of it is due to "control issues". If you are a control-freak this could aggravate it.

Eat mild foods for dinner. No spices or things that will upset your stomach.

Also, as mg says, only hang out with constructive positive people.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,mg
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 01:11 PM

Avoid people who blow hot and cold on you. That is the definition of abuse..the one I like anyway..not that someone is always nasty, but nasty alternating with lovey dovey. Gage your relationship to them at the lowest point and be always cautious. mg

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,Nervous Nellie
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 01:07 PM

I wish this was a joke, but it's not. I appreciate all the help--it really is wonderful to know that you all care.

As for being a called a troll, I've been here a long time (so long, in fact, that I remember back when Gargoyle used his real name) and it doesn't bother me.

I've got other things to worry about, and those that wanted to help have helped a lot with them. Keep it up--I consider every suggestion.

Where have I been? I was up till 2am, and got up again to start my day at 4:50am. Didn't even need coffee--

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: SINSULL
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 10:58 AM

Thanks Janie. She is in good hands.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 10:50 AM

Good to know that Nellie has connected with a real pro. Thanks Janie.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Janie
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 10:30 AM

Hi Folks,

I can vouch that Nellie is not trolling (and I am not Nellie.)

Janie

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 10:26 AM

Nellie's gone awful quiet....

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Ed T
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 09:03 AM

I cannot recommend against medical help.

But, sometimes it helps to get advice from folks, some of whom who may have have had similar experiences to yours....and found things that works for them that you may wish to consider. I suggest doing some internet research.

Also, medical professionals are not there to help 24 hours/7 days a week. Support groups and individuals could be there for you in those other times.

Attached are some online support groups that may be related I found on Google. Try a search...you may come up wuitnh one that is useful.   

Hope this helps in some way.

Regards

http://www.dailystrength.org/c/Panic-Attacks/support-group

http://www.support4hope.com/anxiety_disorders/anxiety_disorder_medications.htm

http://www.mdjunction.com/panic-attacks

http://www.panicsurvivor.com/

http://www.panicsurvivor.com/

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: SINSULL
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 08:30 AM

I have to admit I am perplexed at the comments about medical professionals who recommend the internet for advice, " are scared to death of people who are exhibiting panic/anxiety symptoms", and involve the police. True panic attacks can be life-threatening. When I had them, my GP was concerned and worked with a therapist and psychiatrist to get to the root of the problem. I got nothing but sympathy, support and a dose of "you have to make some serious changes".
We have gone from full blown panic attacks with all the bells and whistles including the involvement of two children to OK folks, get a grip.
Nellie has received excellent advice. Let's see what she does with it.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 06:13 AM

Well, Spaw, I have to agree with you, I have my doubts too.

I acutally typed one of the usual long diatribes, because someone very close to me suffered from these a while back, but then I read some of Nellie's posts again, particlarly the one where she told folks to calm down as it wasn't life-threatening, then got kinda shirty with folks for not answering the question she actually asked.

So I wrote the very simplified version.

I'm glad a few people may have learnt about the brown paper bag bit though, as that really does work.

I know, with my friend, that she felt it was actually life-threatening and would have been in no way able to be light-hearted on a messageboard, during the times she was suffering from these attacks, because she felt as if her whole world was crumbling around her.

Still, at least I managed to find that Deva Premal chant, which I've been meaning to do for ages.

If Nellie is for real, then I wish her every success in finding a way through it all.

If she ain't, then trust me, it's not good to make fun of people who do actually suffer such attacks, because they are bloody scary to the person suffering from them.

The New Jersey comment was weird too. ????

I'm off to listen to Deva again now and hang the washing out in the sunshine....

Get well soon, Nellie, if you genuine.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 05:57 AM

Nobody doin' that here Carol 'cept me to me......like I said, it was just a comment.

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: CarolC
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 03:01 AM

I think most of us are aware of that possibility. But I remember the time a real person with a real need started a thread like this one, and was attacked as being a troll. It's no skin off my nose if a troll starts a thread like this one and I respond to it. But if someone really needs help and they get treated badly because people need to beat up on those they think could possibly be a troll, that is just sad.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 02:56 AM

btw.....I of course could be wrong as I said above, but I just kinda' had to throw this out there..........

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 02:53 AM

Actually Lizzie, in this case I kinda' doubt it.

Basically folks, I think we're being had. Nellie may well be a bored member or one of our regular trolls with a wind-up that this place will always bite on......."Need help!" Like the Mom with Munchausen by Proxy who gives some illness to her child to garner attention, This person has created Nellie with her mental illness (which we will almost always bite on) to garner attention for themselves. Karen had the perfect phrase for it.......Munchausen by Internet


Why come to a site like this if you're really in that much trouble? Like I said, call me a bastard but there ya' go!

Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Bert
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 02:52 AM

That's a good one Lizzie. Nellie could click on catspaw49 at the beginning of his post and read EVERYTHING that he has ever posted.

By the time ya get halfway through the attack should be long gone.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 02:48 AM

hhmmmm adrenaline... do you happen to have dull ache at about where your kidneys lie before or after attacks? if so, get a check for adrenal dysfunction.

best line of defence is to recognise what it is, and start doing relaxation things to combat before it becomes full blown.

remember much as you want to fix things for others, you are not responsible for anyone but yourself and your little ones. for their sake if not your own, distance yourself from the source of agitation.

i have been where you are, extended family falling apart, i had moved away from support networks with my small children. quite often i was frantic. learned i had to calm myself for my kids. usually distracted myself, by settling into play with them. on the floor with their toys or books or dress up clothes.

keep coming on to this thread and reporting if it helps. take comfort from those here keeping you in good thoughts.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 02:41 AM

Nellie, adopt Spaw.
Shrink him. Keep in your pocket, 24/7. If any bad feelings start, take him out and let him talk to you, in his own special way, and soon, you'll be gasping for breath because of laughter, not panic. ;0)

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 02:25 AM

I've re-read and re-read your postings, Spaw, and I can't find a scumbag among them. But then again, you are the Evil Twin of us.*bg*

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Liz the Squeak
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 02:19 AM

Hey Spaw - sometimes the verbal 'slap in the face' is what is required!

I can only recommend what worked for me. Everyone is different, everyone will have a different symptom, a different attitude, a different way of dealing. You pays your money and takes your choice.

Breathing excercises - I'm a singer so I found singing a particularly difficult phrase under my breath gave me some sort of control over it. If I made it all through the phrase (mine was 'I know that my redeemer liveth' from Handel's 'Messiah' but anything will do) without running out of breath, I was taking control back.

Hypnotherapy - back to picturing the 'happy place' as noted above, but it has a calming and for me, soporific effect because that is how my hypnotherapist "programmed" it. It has reduced my night time panics and enabled me to get more and better sleep, for which I am eternally grateful.

If you start to get chest pain that doesn't ease after 5-10 minutes, or starts to spread down your left arm or across your neck and head, then get to an ER ASAP!! Panic attacks may be sneered at by some doctors, but if you have an underlying health problem, they can make it worse. Get taken to an ER often enough and sooner or later, someone actually takes notice.

Good luck, you know the 'Cat is always here should you need to rant.

LTS

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Mar 10 - 01:25 AM

I want all of you to get ready at your keyboards and commence posting about what a cold and heartless piece of shit of a non human being Spaw is for ever having such terrible thoughts let alone posting them in the face of such a plea for help from someone in trouble. How can I be so cruel, etc., ad infinitum............But, uh...........Well, I also get the feeling, and its one I have a great deal of confidence in, that I am not alone in my thinking regarding what I am about to say. So drag me over the coals and through the gates of hell.........Thanks for listening though. My apologies for being the scumbag bastard that I am.

I'll likely post later......or not.


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: open mike
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 09:38 PM

The bag technique was what I was going to recommend, as well.
You can also visualize a candle, you can use your finger to
represent it, and blow gently towards it, not to blow out the
flame, or the imaginary flame, but to direct a stream of air
towards it for as long as possible. this controlled breathing
can help focus your attention away from the panic feelings.

I have friends and family members and other fire survivors
who have had great results with this: Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT)(tapping)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6i33V2EcVlY

http://www.thrivingnow.com/for/Health/eft-tapping-points/

http://www.emofree.com/

http://www.tapintoeft.com/

http://www.tapping.com/

I have also experienced positive results with Rapid Eye Movement
therapy. This is often used for post-traumatic Stress Disorder.

http://www.psychotherapy-center.com/emdr.html

http://www.healthcentral.com/anxiety/c/1950/70915/eye-desensitization

also you might simply go outside and close your eyes, visualize your "happy place" or peaceful place, a waterfall, some natural place, and when you open your eyes find something that reminds you of this place in your everyday view. then remember the peaceful feeling when you see it.

good luck, and thanks for sharing this with the mudcats.
know that we are hoping the best for you.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Bobert
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 08:40 PM

Yo, nervous...

Back a long time ago I suffered from panic attacks... It got so bad that I could not leave the house... So, two things I will tell you may be helpful:

1. The most important thing for you to understand is this: it will pass!!! Yes, I know you can't believe that but it's true...

2. The medical model ain't all it's cracked up to be... Good physical exercise (daily) can be better than the pills... Was for me...

Hang in there, exercise and trust that it will pass...

B~

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Alice
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 08:36 PM

Nellie, PM to me. - Alice

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Emma B
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 08:36 PM

Some of the more severe panic attacks are the direct result of Post Traumatic Stress

Anyone can have an experience that is overwhelming, frightening, and beyond our control.
We could find ourselves in a car crash, the victim of a violent assault etc

Most people, in time, get over experiences like this without needing help. For some people though, the severity of the traumatic experience can set off a reaction that can last for many months or years.

Quite apparently ordinary things can trigger off flashbacks.
For instance, if you had a car crash in the rain, a rainy day might start a flashback.

The more disturbing the experience, the more likely you are to develop PTSD

Just as there are both physical and psychological aspects to PTSD, so there are both physical and psychological treatments for it.

Don't rule out medication...
antidepressant tablets will reduce the strength of PTSD symptoms

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
may involve some relaxation work to help you tolerate the discomfort of thinking about the traumatic events

Body-focussed Therapies
can include complementary therapies such as massage, acupuncture, reflexology, yoga, meditation and tai chi.
They all help you to develop ways of relaxing and managing stress

but remember 'complementary therapies' are complementary

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: GUEST,Nervous Nellie
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 08:34 PM

Keep posting! I appreciate every word. In spite of what I might say, I am thinking about everything. I am just about ten steps ahead of myself. Racing thoughts are part of this, so I'm not saying all that I'm thinking.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: olddude
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 08:19 PM

One of my kids has it , a very bad case. There is great meds for it and it doesn't wack you or change your mood or thinking, it just makes them go away ... awesome meds. Start with your family doc. These are very common in many folks and is just a chemical issue ... easily fixed ok .. trust me been through it with my daughter since she was 11 and she is 33 now

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Lizzie Cornish 1
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 07:58 PM

The brown paper bag works. A friend of mine used it when she was going through similar attacks. She also did 'birth breathing' too, focussed on the breathing, not on the panic, and it slowed her right down, taught her that SHE had the control button, NOT the attacks.

Here, Nellie, lock yourself away from the little 'uns for a few minutes if you can, put your headphones on and listen to this..

To soothe....

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Amos
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 07:50 PM

HEll, Nellie, half the folks in Manhattan have that reaction to those words.

I cannot help with referrals; my instincts are to try the brown paper bag, and self-locational exercises like touching things or pushing against something heavy like a wall, to keep you anchored in the present while the period of reaction passes. I wish you the very best of luck finding someone in your area.

A

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: Jack Campin
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 07:25 PM

A friend of mine is a doctor who often acts as a medical escort (accompanying seriously ill people being flown home after falling ill abroad). He sees a LOT of panic attacks and always carries a special piece of equipment for dealing with them.

It's a brown paper bag. He gets the patient to clamop it over their face and breathe in and out of it. This raises the CO2 level in the bloodstream and usually stops the attack in a couple of minutes.

I had a cluster of panic attacks many years ago (probably induced by medication). Wish I'd known about that trick.

Subject: RE: BS: Need help dealing with panic attacks
From: katlaughing
Date: 03 Mar 10 - 06:46 PM

I just went through this starting back in October, for the first, and I hope, last time in my life. There was NO working around the symptoms and it was diagnosed as being a result of PTSD. It took a caring and sharp-eyed physician to show that the panic/anxiety were related to depression. We treated it with meds, then I got started with a psychologist. I still take xanax at night and will be done with the zoloft in another two weeks. In the meantime, I am going to biofeedback sessions at his office, which focus on optimum rate of breathing per minute for my system to keep the sympathetic nervous system quiet and happy and I continue to see him, too.

Insurance is GOOD, but keep in mind that until July, insurance companies can get away with only paying half of mental health bills. In July, a new bill which was passed will require them to pay mental health the same as they do any other ailment, so it should just be deductible and copay.

Also, you may need to try different therapists. The first one I went to was really nice, sympathetic, encouraging but lacked concrete suggestions "homework" if you will which would show me a way out. The second one is very much into treating the whole person AND definitely gives stuff to do at home. He also prefers not to use meds if possible.

Good luck and if you want to PM me feel free.

kat