Panic attacks for fifty years

[Hound_Dog]

My first panic attack happened when I was sixteen years old. I had no idea what was happening to me and I felt both scared and embarrassed and was unable to share my experiences with either friends or family. By the time I was nineteen I was working in a factory and once again the attacks started again and I could no longer work. I went to a doctor who advised counseling and completed the course. The counselor advised me that my anxiety and panic attacks were caused by the fear of rejection a diagnosis that I still believe all these years later to be a correct.

The constant fear of rejection has resulted over the years of being scared in social situations where I feel extremely self conscious. First at school, then work and social gatherings. I am not competitive, cannot deal with aggressive people or people who are incapable of treating people as equals.

I still have panic attacks but have learnt to deal with them so that they are not affecting my quality of life too much. I'm fortunate to have a supportive partner and moved to a better environment when I retired. Here is a list of some of the things that I have found that help me to cope with panic attacks.

I practice mindful meditation every day.

Walk every day.

Have a dog that gives me unconditional love.

Spend time with nature and absorb its beauty.

Drink alcohol in small quantities.

Drink decaf coffee.

Eat a healthy diet and love to cook.

Have regular health checks.

I guess I wanted to write this post to share with other sufferers that I have accepted my condition, that it will always be with me but it can be managed with hard work and commitment.

[Soberlicious96]

Dear Hound Dog,

Welcome to Beyond Blue, and well done for reaching out.

I must say that when I saw your username, it made me think of Elvis! I love the good old rock 'n' roll of the 50's and 60's! I have always found many different types of music to be so therapeutic for my troubled soul.

It's great that you have managed to get help and have learnt all those healthier ways of dealing with your panic attacks. And the fact that you are also sharing some hints and tips, that's so positive! I too have had a few panic attacks in my time. Although mostly for me the battle has been depression and anxiety, and PTSD due to childhood trauma. And I too have had lots of help over the years.

One of the major things (and my username indicates it) is that I have not had any alcohol for 23 years now. I got clean and sober and turned my life around, with the help of others; professionals as well as family and friends.

Regular exercise, a healthy diet, having a regular sleep pattern, meditation ..... yeah, all those things are so important to our health and wellbeing.

Anyway, Beyond Blue is here for as much as you need it. Good to have you here. I hope you enjoy it, and can find the support and encouragement that you are seeking and offering.

Take care. xo