Can anyone relate to this?

[HarryL]

So, i've been having to deal with what seems to be some sort of anxiety disorder (not officially diagnosed). My experience is that a feeling of dread looms over me throughout the day, with it passing and coming back depending on various unpredictable reasons. I have had this feeling pretty much every other day for a few weeks now. I know what may have started it as I had a really physically draining panic attack which necessitated an ambulance; I thought I had heart problems but turns out i'm fine, just a little unfit. Going back to my experience, i'm not sure what initiates the anxious and dreadful feelings each day. It seems random. But, as soon I have feeling a symptom, whether it be slight nausea or heart palpitations, I am reminded of that feeling and it returns inevitably and without end in sight. More over, I am not unfamiliar with the feeling of dread, having had a few bad trips with the ole mary jane some years ago, which i'm sure started this whole mental health decline. So in the end, i'm posting this to see if anyone can resonate with what I'm experiencing and to maybe bring consolation to those who can resonate.

[David35]

I have similar panic attacks. I woke up this morning at 4am for no apparent reason having a panic attack. You're right. They are emotionally draining and bit frightening how much frustration is below the surface. They do pass. I like to think of it as your subconscious trying to get the attention of your conscious thought. Something might be bothering you, a decision might need to be made. Everyone's circumstances are different. I've also heard that if you avoid trying to identify what is causing them, they can get worse. But therein lies in the problem. With the panic attacks I have, my ability to think calmly goes down the drain, and it's only usually later through discussing things with someone that I may identify it's cause. Mine last 5-10 minutes. I've had them in the car and I've simply had to change plans and come home.

The only therapeutic treatment I have is woodworking, particularly painting and varnishing a finished product which tends to stop my mind racing. Not sure how much of this helps.