Is this anxiety

[FastFoward]

Hello

I had a strange experience today that I have had before but was somewhat different.

I was at work (barista) and felt the chest tighten that I feel all too frequently - like something has been injected into my chest and is causing a tingle and tightening feeling. I thought ok, just a panic attack (never been to a doctor about this but a simple google told me what it was years ago). Then it got a little different though.

Suddenly everything became seriously more pronounced. Volume went up, colors exaggerated, cold and hot spots that were extremely exadurated all over my body but continuously changing, my vision was kind of flickering, and I felt light - like I was floating. It was like something had lifted something that had been muting all my senses. And I felt like I was going to faint too (I have never fainted in my life but I could feel myself slipping away). I know it is normal to think something is seriously wrong during a panic attack but since I found out what they were I have always accepted them and thought - "you feel like you are going to die but that is just not the case - you are fine" - no matter how bad they where. But this was different, all I could think is that "I'm glad i'm not alone at home because if I collapse here someone will notice straight away and get help".

Then a local came in, who I always have a chat with, and I was like - "oh no, he's gunna see something is up". I greeted him and asked him how his day was. I could here myself talk but it didn't feel like it was coming from me. Like I was observing the conversation from just within myself, I was deeper within and there was a kind of glass barrier separating me from the front I was putting on.

Anyway, it was weird, very uncomfortable and it lasted in its intensity just a few minutes. But it continued too some extent for about an hour. I was just able to keep it at bay by keeping myself very bust and blanking my mind whilst I cleaned and cut tomatoes etc. Licky no one else cam in for a while.

Anyway, has anyone else experienced something like this

[blondguy]

Hi FastForward

Welcome and good on you for posting too!

Yes I have...when I was 23 in 1983 and it scared the hell out of me. I had my first mega anxiety attack in traffic and still remember how bad I felt. The attacks do reduce in severity over time...with ongoing help starting with your GP...they have much better training on anxiety than when I first had it.

Even though the bulk of my anxiety has gone I would say that my first attack felt like I was about to be thrown out of a helicopter.....it was scary...dizzy....feeling like fainting....shortness of breath.....sometimes shaky hands...the need to go to the loo...tight chest....the list is long and the feelings are crap to have.

In a nutshell FF...

* I have never known anyone to have fainted or died as a result of an anxiety attack..(me included)

* Our adrenaline increases and our body reacts to it with these awful feelings

* If possible see your GP as soon as you can...this will help you a lot...try to book a double appointment too

* With respect...avoid coffee...this is a stimulant you dont need right now with anxiety..they dont mix..

* Turn off your mobile/ipad/tablet/PC at least an hour before bed to ensure a good quality sleep...The screens only stimulate brain activity which you dont need at all..

Your GP is the first best choice to deal with this anxiety.The sooner the better FF

I really do understand your pain on these bad feelings....I had the same anxiety for 13 years and thought I could self heal....I was so wrong....Early intervention with a doc that you get along with is a huge step towards healing

These forums are a judgemental free zone and a SAFE place for you to post.

You have a great proactive attitude by posting as quick and so well.

you are not alone here at all and there are many kind people that can be here for you 🙂

I hope you can post back and let us know how you go

my kind thoughts

Paul

[FastFoward]

Thanks Paul, it is nice to know someone else has experienced this kind of thing and that it is just anxiety and nothing worse. I don't drink coffee (just serve). As for sleep, I have tried it all and sleep and me just don't seem to mix lol. I should see a GP I know, but have had bad experiences with them in the past. But I know a few doesn't represent the whole bunch. I have a book for now though. "The CBT Toolbox". I will try this and if nothing changes I will see someone. This started in my mid 20's and is really starting to get on top of me now at 35.

Thanks for the reply. It is nice to know people understand and care 🙂

[MsPurple]

Hi FastForward

It sounds like it probably was a panic attack, however talking to a doctor will probably make it clearer. I know how horrible they are. I feel hot and cold all of a sudden, especially in my hands and feet, sometimes my mouth goes numb, I also feel like I am going to faint and I feel like I am trembling. It is horrible and you feel like the only way to out of it is to just get away. Just letting you know it is treatable. You have already looked into the CBT toolbox which is a pretty good tool. Have you considered meditation. You can get apps on your phone called 'Calm' or 'headspace' or others. It helps you be in the moment and be aware of you body. It helps you zone out and just think about your body in that moment. I don't to it everyday but if I feel an anxiety attack comming on then I sometimes use the tools I use when I meditate. Maybe giving htis a try would be beneficial. I do think talking to a doctor about his would be also beneficial.

Hope this helps

[blondguy]

Thankyou for the super kind feedback 🙂

You have a great attitude FF. The CBT Toolbox sounds interesting...I might get a copy...Thanks for the tip!

I hope you have a good weekend too!

Best. Paul