Panic and parents

[piper-21]

Hi. So I've been feeling pretty crap recently and was just wondering if anyone can relate?

I've thought about talking to my parents about it, but they are always dismissive, and make frequent jokes about how 'mental health' is stupid and everyone needs to grow up and get some real problems. I don't know what to do about it, because I know I'm not okay, but whenever I talk to them my mum says 'it's probably hormones'. They are a nurse and a doctor so they don't have much empathy when it comes to mental health as opposed to physical health, and often don't realise that the things they say are harmful. I've had panic attacks before and am often highly stressed, usually about trivial things, but I've never talked to a GP or counsellor before about anything. I don't have a very good relationship with my mum, she's not very physically affectionate, and it's really hurtful. I feel immensely guilty because I know my problems are so minor compared so some people, but I just wanted to know if anyone felt the same, or had any advice.

[white knight]

Hi, welcome

Thankyou for posting. Your problems arent minor- whatever they be. With mental health they can manifest over time- best to nip them in the bud if you can.

I have a friend I've known for 12 years and she is a nurse, there is no way I'd discuss mental health to her, she wouldnt understand and while your dad is a doctor, often their empathy is missing for whatever reason. This is why we have this forum dedicate to the topic at large where people of like mindedness can swim freely on their woes.

Depending on your age Piper, the comment your mum makes "likely hormones" cant be dismissed so keep an open mind, we can be proven wrong so try to be a "sponge" and take dismissive comments and keep them in the back of your mind.

Ok, so you need help. Can you see a school counsellor? Can you attend a doctor on your own.? I can understand if you cant. So-

In terms of panic attacks (I've had one major one they thought was a heart attack!!) and anxiety in general here is a thread about it. please, you only need to read the 1st post of this-

https://forums.beyondblue.org.au/t5/anxiety/anxiety-how-l-eliminated-it/td-p/183873

I'd like to know your thoughts

TonyWK

[piper-21]

Hi White Night,

I can't tell you how relieved I am that someone has recognized I'm not just 'being dramatic'. We do have multiple school counsellors at the high school I go to, and I think I just needed confirmation that it would be worth actually talking to someone. I read your post and it was very insightful, I think I'll have to try those motivational talks you mentioned.

I was wondering if you had any ideas for managing panic attacks? I find it hard to get my breathing under control and it can be pretty scary sometimes.

Thank you so much.

[white knight]

Hi

I've only had the one panic attack, it was dreadful. From then on I went on a major prevention campaign. 

I find deep breathing to be amazing. It lowers your heart rate as you do it. Also try inhaling to your maximum lung capacity then exhale over a 4 second period, inhaling for 4 seconds and so on. 

A change of environment is very helpful. At home go for a walk around the block. You'll be amazed at the things you'll see and the people you meet. While doing those things look at nature, a bee collecting nectar or a bird feeding. 

I have a reall helpful guru that I follow (not religious) called Prem Rawat Maharaji.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BhrtbBrMQ1Y

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W3aFh7OJMNA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X30sWycWz4o

I've been watching his youtube videos for 35 years now.

Finally, this technique when I first get into bed at night- lie still, deep breath, relax, tension up yout toes then feet, calves, knees, stomach, shoulders, arms, hands, neck head, face. Do all those for 15 seconds and hold the tension then let go and lie still and go onto the next set of muscles. At the end tension up all of your muscles for 15 seconds then relax. Thats called muscle tensioning exercises.

Avoid stressful situations like toxic people, gossip and drama. 

https://forums.beyondblue.org.au/t5/relationship-and-family-issues/they-just-wont-understand-why/td-...

https://forums.beyondblue.org.au/t5/anxiety/anxiety-plan-your-future/td-p/255832

Repost anytime, you've made my day

TonyWK