Hi Kyra, the feeling not being able to breathe and feeling trapped might be part of a bigger event called "panic" or "anxiety". Sometimes people have these symptoms when their bodies are pumping out a hormone called adrenalin, which is usually put out in our bodies when we are in danger.
However, sometimes our bodies put that hormone out for no good reason, and make us feel like we have to run, or that we can't breathe, or that our hearts are racing really fast, we're sweating, feel like we're trembling, even if we're just sitting on a chair, on the train, or in a classroom.
This bundle of feelings are part of anxiety, and the not being able to breathe has a medical term, "hyperventilation".
I wonder if there is something that you are worrying about, or feel that you can't manage in your life. Are there things that are stressing you, or someone that is making you stressed? I think your body is telling you that things are not ok, and it might be worthwhile approaching a trusted adult to talk this through.
The sort of people I'm thinking of are parents, school counsellors, trusted teachers or relatives that may be able to guide you to get the help to explore why your body is reacting this way.
You also might want to check out more information on anxiety or panic on the beyondblue website and here in the forums, so that you can begin to understand this very common thing that happens to many young people.
As soon as you begin to understand it, it won't feel as scary as it does now. Take care.
