Anticipatory Anxiety

One of my greatest problems right now, is anticipating the next panic attack. I am even waking up anxious. I also set myself up for example, when I know I'm getting ready to go in the car. Without fail, I will have a panic attack.

Any tips for helping to quiet the anticipatory stuff, so that I can maybe avoid a full blown panic attack?

I had such a nice day planned today and I got half way to where I was going, hyperventilated, started shaking, had the awful vision sensitivity and had to go to my mom's house andy cry it out until I could calm down. Then I went straight home and hid in my bed while the babysitter was with my son. Not how I wanted to spend my very valuable sitter day!

TSD.,

I am really sorry that your day did not go as planned.:( There will be a day, sometime not far off, when you will get to do all of the fun things you planned and more.  I am sure of it.

One thing that I have found helpful for anticipatory anxiety is the use of positive mantras.

I might say to myself:

"Even though I did have some panic in this situation previously, I won't have it again this time. I can get through this!"

or

"I can handle anything that comes my way today. I am stronger than before, and I have lots of management skills."

The words that we tell ourselves have real power!

It may take some time to convince yourself of all of this...but your subconscious registers these positive words right away.:)

Keep working on your other coping skills as well such as breathing and progressive muscle relaxation/meditation to keep your tool belt full!

S.C.