Posted 1/29/2012 4:22 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Madhatter,
That's a great name for the way you feel when anxiety comes, I know, because I have the same battle to fight. I have learned much in the time I've dealt with it and would like to share it. I don't know if you are a Christian, but as for myself, I couldn't have made it through this mess without the help of Jesus. I have had so much direction about getting help with it from answered prayers. I recommend a prayer first thing. Christ is the Prince of Peace and that's what we need. He doesn't want you to feel this way either. Check out how many times the Bible says, "Be anxious for nothing" There's lots of help in there.
First thing to realize, is you only Feel like you're going to die, you won't. As horrible as you feel, it is a symptom of your thinking and not your health. I know how annoying that sounds, I wanted it to be something medical so I could instantly get over it. But since that's not the case, know that you're not going crazy and you're not alone. Stop all caffeine in your diet and any other stimulants. You can get near instant relief by this simple exercise which will get easier to do each time you need it. Your body is all tensed up and ready to run or fight. Those chemicals are causing the panic.
Although it may be hard to be to stop pacing, go to a quiet place and lie down if you can, or sit comfortably. Put on some soothing music if possible, like ocean waves or nature sounds. Inhale slowly and deeply and hold it for a few seconds, then exhale slowly saying" relax" to yourself. Do this for 3 breaths then, starting with your feet, focus your attention on tensing your ankles pointing your toes up and then relaxing them. Notice how it feels when they relax. Go up your whole body like that tensing your muscles then relaxing them breathing slowly and deeply. Don't forget your face. Think only positive thoughts, like being in your favorite place, on the beach or where ever you like best. Feel the sun, the breeze the whole picture, use your imagination to really see yourself there. Don't allow any scary thoughts when you have one, say STOP and replace it with I'm am calm and relaxed. I use a relaxation cd from the Midwest Center that directs me through the whole exercise. I rarely use meds to control panic now; if I can't get to a quiet place I would take one quarter of an Ativan or more if needed. In fact just doing the relaxation exercise (3x a day at first), will stop them altogether in a short time, but we still have work to do even when they're gone to keep them gone. It took me a long time to recognize my negative thoughts and stress. Anxiety is really like shooting ourselves in the foot. I hate hearing that too, but it's true. Pills don't change the way we think, and that's the problem. I used to get irked when I read that or was told that. Try to keep your mind busy, an idle mind really is the devil's playground. Writing is good especially if you will write your prayers and scriptures about peace. You can get a Bible promises book at the dollar stores for nearly nothing..worth its wt. in gold. Remember, you're not alone, and this too will pass. BTW, it's not much comfort, but intelligent, sensitive, creative people are usually the ones afflicted. I paint and write poetry, which helps occupy my mind immensely. Hope this helped you, Madhatter, I know this will help, I'll be praying for you. You're going to be ok, really!