My claustrophobia is getting to the point where I can't commute on Sydney Trains any longer

[62442]

Pretty much exactly as the title says. Whenever I hear there's multiple delays on the line and trains are backed up, I go into a cold panic. If I'm in between stations and we suddenly stop I can feel the panic attack starting. My partner was once stuck between stations for 45 minutes and the sheer thought makes me want to break down. I've just started a new job which requires me to commute to Town Hall during peak hour and every day it makes me feel exhausted when I get off the train both before and after work. I've tried the breathing techniques and every thing else, but am more self conscious about people around me thinking I'm being dramatic or weird. Incontinence anxiety also plays a big role seeing as I have a weak bladder and my ultimate fear is having an "accident" trapped on a peak hour train surrounded by people. How can I overcome this without medication? I feel like it's controlling my life and I've had enough.

[Katyonthehamsterwheel]

I'm sorry you're experiencing this, it sounds very unpleasant. I'm not sure how to overcome it, as it's about training the mind, and I can't seem to manage my own. But something I think is that we tend to overestimate how much attention other people are paying to us. I remember giving a speech at uni in class once and was sooooo nervous and red and stuttery... and someone told me that they hadn't noticed at all. I hope that helps at least a little, and that perhaps other's might have some advice. Best wishes, kat

[blondguy]

Hello 62442

I understand what you are going through as I used to feel exactly the same in traffic jams and it was awful

You are not alone with incontinence as a symptom of anxiety 62442....This is a very common yet dreadful feeling to have when we on public transport...or in a car....I also have the same thoughts...unfortunately

Our digestive system is the most sympathetic to anxiety feelings...You are not alone there!

Medication aside...Can I ask if you are seeing your GP for these anxiety symptoms?

Thankyou for speaking from the heart 62442...There is no judgement on the forums. Your privacy and well being are paramount to Beyond Blue

any questions are always welcome 🙂

my kind thoughts

Paul

[believe248]

I've been experiencing this on and off for the last year. The fight or flight urge is so strong but youre trapped. The only way ive been able to deal with it is to put my headphones in and put on some mediatation or relaxation music & imagery - e.g. fish swimming in ocean i find soothes me. I find it eventually distracts me & calms me down. Sometimes it takes a good 5-10mins though. Then once ive calmed down I seem to be alright. Hope you can find what works for you.

[alate]

Hi, I know this feeling all to well- it’s terrifying. I’m so sorry you are dealing with this on a daily basis. I struggle with Anxiety and Claustrophobia as well, to the point that locking a bathroom stall is stressful. My GP suggested Beta Blockers, which I have found amazing. I only take them when I need to or on days that I know I will be doing something hard. They basically just slow down your heart rate..once I knew the feeling of my low heart rate it was easier to replicate that feeling with out taking the Blocker. They have not cured me in anyway but I feel stronger just knowing there might be a light at the end of the tunnel.
I hope this helps or at least brings you some comfort. Some days are worse then others, but you are brave for catching that train everyday and you should be proud of yourself. xS

[blondguy]

Hello alate and thankyou for sharing your valued experience!

Thankyou for mentioning beta blockers as they do reduce the heart rate which you mentioned above 🙂

Just a note re anxiety from my own experience if thats okay....If our anxiety begins to have a negative impact on our ability to function effectively daily....seeing our doc (GP) is huge benefit to finding some peace of mind

Only If you wish (and have the time) it would be great if you could stick around the forums alate!

my kind thoughts

Paul

[JungleJulia]

How did you learn to cope with the traffic jams? I've gotten worse and worse with driving this year and now get panic attacks at red lights. I've basically stoped driving. I had a really really intense panic attack at a red light a few months back and just wanted to jump out of the car and run away.

[Guest_36569923]

Hey there, it may have been some years since and I genuinely hope you're doing better nowadays. I experience the same thing and even worse. I've had hysterical panic attacks after being in a 20 minute standstill in the city loop in Melb. I think you should try therapy and hone in on your fears because it's definitely a psychological thing, as I fear suffocating and I know I definitely won't. It's a phobia that's not grounded in rationality, it's okay, it gets better. Therapy helps! good luck.