New to the forum

Hello all,

This is my first time reaching out publicly. My saga began this past December right before Xmas when I started having panic attacks. The first one started during my step daughters holiday concert and they only ramped up from there. Xmas eve was the worst one that pretty much lasted all day, I felt totally out of control. I immediately sought counseling and was diagnosed with PTSD and Panic Disorder. Since then I have had some good days but many are not the best. Things have seem to have got worse in the last 3 weeks so I decided to reach out for more help.

Many days it all begins within 30 minutes of waking up, I get a lot of derealization, brain fog, blurry vision, pounding heart but very little tachycardia, trembling, feelings of panic, and overall feeling exhausted each day. Depression has set in as well because of the way I feel each day even though I have so much going for me. I just finished my Masters and got a new job as a clinician for a residential treatment program. I have actually worked in the field of psychiatry as a counselor for the last 6 years on an inpatient unit which I think is somewhat of a cause of all of this. It is an extremely stressful environment and I have developed a fear of becoming seriously mentally ill which only fueled my panic when it began. I have been working full time and going to school full time for 18 months and I feel it has been a significant cause. Genetically panic attacks run in the family so I am predisposed as well.

On the positive side, I am still continuing with counseling and despite things feeling worse lately I feel I have been able to handle the symptoms better than I initially did. Currently no medications, my GP prescribed me alprazolam as needed but I have only taken it a handful of times. I am pursuing many different resources to try and work through this before I try medications. I always eat right and have exercised daily for the last 7 years. Hoping to gain some insight here and be a helping hand for others who are struggling as well. Sorry for the long post but looking forward to talking more with all of you!

- Chris

Hi E.K. and welcome!

I am sorry to hear of your A/P challenges...I know all too well what an epic all day attack feels like...and how wrung out it can make you feel!

Great job on getting your treatment plan in place, and taking all of the beneficial steps you have thus far. I am sending encouragement to keep going in your journey to recovery...and wishing you patience for yourself and the process!

Here is the link to our Resources. Inside you'll find great self help material that will perhaps enhance your program. I like the Affirmations/Positive Mantras, the Therapy/Thought Challenging Worksheets...and the Stress Relieving Exercise links...but check all of them out and see what resonates with you!

www.healingwell.com/community/default.aspx?f=9&m=104206

Keep posting as a peer if you find it helpful. (since you are in the business, you'll have to check your professional credentials at the door to stay in line with forum rules!) We understand, care....and support is key!

Scaredy Cat