Random panic attacks?

[Meatballs]

Hi, so I don't have anxiety (my doctor gave me the 'stress is normal!' speech), but I do experience anxiety symptoms constantly and have panic attacks. Lately, I have been much less worried than usual -eg, I can go into shops without crying- but I still get random panic attacks every few weeks?

I don't really understand why this is happening, is it a sign that even though I feel 'mostly okay,' I'm really not okay? They normally happen in school assemblies (crowds freak me out) or during class. I can go from being fine to a hyperventilating mess in a few minutes! It's so sudden and random, I'm always afraid ones going to sneak up on me.

Any similar stories / advice??

[blondguy]

Hey Meatballs

Great to see you! I think we have had a conversation a while ago...Good on you for sticking around

My doctor used to call these annoying attacks 'free floating anxiety'.....I never knew what he meant until now....My doc left out some very important words...." Paul, make sure that you arent over revving at work or in your personal life"...I just wished he would have warned me that I was going too hard and too fast.

I cant wind back the clock for me Meatballs but I wish I would have made an appointment with a good psychologist back in 1983 when I was 23. I was a jerk and thought I could 'soldier on' and self heal...whoops..I couldnt...It took me 13 years of increasing anxiety to wake up and see a psychologist...

Your anxiety is common Meatballs, that is a fact. You have the guts to talk (vent) about it.....that makes you a strong person.....a very strong person actually (I couldnt at the time...you have)

Just a couple of tips to help you help yourself if I may....

• Even if you have some good days....see a counsellor...the more regular the better your quality of life
• Find a GP that has an interest/focus where anxiety/mental health is concerned...they are available
• Its great to be an achiever no worries, let go....think slow and let go of the reins...you will still achieve 🙂
• Crowds are a pain with anxiety...find a good counselor..

you are not on your own here Meatballs...

I hope you can get back to us when you have the time... Even just for a chat 🙂

My Best

Paul (Acute anxiety since 1983 till 1996 and now recovered)

[Meatballs]

Hi Paul,

Haha yes, I waited too long to reply because I wasn't sure what to say so I just left it... I'm surprised you remember me, I see your posts on here frequently, so you must have helped heaps of people!

I used to see a therapist, but that's ended, so I might book an appointment with a counsellor. I see what your doctor was talking about free floating anxiety -the kind that's always there and just needs a trigger to come to the surface. I am definitely an overachiever, too, which doesn't help.

Thanks for your reply and best wishes for you, too.