Hi idkwhatsthehapps,
Welcome to the forums– so glad you thought to come here and post. I'm a fellow occasional panic attack sufferer, (had maybe 6-12 in my whole life), and like you I've been puzzled about what brings them on, when, and why. There are lots of schools of thought on this, but suffice it to say that they are a physical reaction to feelings of anxiety, sometimes even ones that operate on a subconscious or unconscious level.
When it becomes difficult for us to process that anxiety, especially if we don't even know what we're really anxious about in the first place, that's when a counsellor or therapist can come the most in handy. I'm so glad you brought up seeing someone about it.
I am something of a seasoned therapy veteran, so happy to answer any questions you have. In general it can be a bit awkward at first, and it may take a few sessions for you to get comfortable and find the right person. If you see someone for some kind of standard talk therapy (which is likely), you will find it to be like a conversation (if a bit slow at times) with a doctor. They may ask you questions about your personal history, how you think and feel when certain things happen, your opinions, hopes, etc. But it will probably be a bit like a dialogue where you reflect on what's bothering you, very informal and relaxed.
Long story short I would highly encourage you to pursue seeing someone for these panic attacks, knowing how upsetting and scary they can be (not to mention the physical toll they take on the body). Now that you have had a couple, even though they aren't pleasant, you can at least know what signs to look for and can reassure yourself that it will last only a very short while. As I said, it's possible that you won't have another one for years or that you may have another in a few days– they work in mysterious ways sometimes.
In the meantime, we are always here for you on the forums!
Warmly,
Gems
