Anxiety, panic attacks and menstration

I have been battling anxiety, panic attacks for almost six months now. It has been very difficult to say the least...Last Thursday a sudden rush of hormones sent me into a panic attack and that very second I started my period. Crazy! I don't want to take meds anymore and they don't seem to work long term. Any advice for me? I have an appointment with my GYN next Thursday and I am looking for questions, etc...

Thanks so much! Can you explain CBT? I am just looking for answers...My anxiety does heighten around menstration, but I know that is not the only problem. My husband is going back to school leaving me three nights a week. He works on Saturday's and I just feel like a single parent most days. When he is home, he is helping but he has his school work and a job which leaves him tired. I think this is a major factor in my p/a as well. Did you/do you become alarmed that something will happen to you when in the midst of a panic attack. I feel like if I could master that situation, then I would be able to handle it more. I also feel like I can't shut my brain off. My childhood plays a big part in this...I have had anxiety since age 4. Despite that, I was a very popular outgoing girl involved in everything and loved being the center of attention. Now I just feel blah, like I am just another number...I am sure some of this comes from being a Mom. I have always wanted to be a mother and I love it. Although, my Mom and sister urge me to find an outlet outside of the kids. How do you do that when there is no time...??? I do feel it helps me to just vent on this site...Thanks!

I know how both of you feel, and it is hard as a woman/wife/mom to have so much to deal with, taking care of everyone else but ourselves!

M2, here is CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) in a nutshell:

It teaches you to combat A/P through learning new and positive ways to think and use self-talk. Using logic and reasoning as well, it helps an individual to see things in a rational light, rather that a purely emotional (fearful) one. This frees him/her from the cycle of negative thoughts and feelings.

This will also help you to get through an anxiety attack, and possibly even eliminate them (it did for me!)

Once you have gotten a handle on your anxiety, and as your schedule allows, starting an activity just for you, is an excellent idea! Book clubs, a community center class, learning a new skill are all great ways to take some personal time and distract the anxious mind!

Good luck to both of you. Ana I am sending out positive thoughts regarding your job! Keep posting:)!!!

Take care,
Scaredy Cat

No, a therapist trained in CBT is sufficient, easier to find maybe, and less expensive most likely!
S.C.