17 and anxious.

Hi all,
I've recently joined to find out if anyone has any idea as to why I have been feeling the way I do. I'm 17 and for the past 5/6 months I've been experiencing reoccurring feeling of dread, usually I'd pass it off as my mind playing tricks on me put recently these has amounted into full blown attacks of panic, dizziness, hyperventilation and losing the ability to think. Over the past 4 weeks I have had 3 of these attacks, some brought on my personal fears of situations that aren't impossible but do not have a strong chance of happening e.g break ins, attacks when i am alone etc. However, my last panic attack that included all of the symptoms listed above plus fidgeting, pounding heart and nausea (so as you can see they are getting worse), but this was brought on by just sitting in the house on my own at about 6 pm. Before hand I felt very uneasy and found it difficult to concentrate on my coursework.
I have often though about going to the doctors, but don't want to get turned away and told that I'm being silly.
If anybody has any advice or similar problems please reply as it's becoming more and more prominent and I do not wish for it to effect my education.
Thanks in advance.

Law

Yes, in deed! So glad you found us! All of us have experienced those symtpoms. Find comfort in the fact that you are not alone.

You're so young. Try to nip this now before it spirals out of control. Make an appointment to see a doctor (or therapists) and they will talk to you and see if you would benefit from any medication.

Coping skills are so important for those of us who experience anxiety. It helps us cope and to manage our anxiety so we can lead productive and normal lives. Check out the resource page (1st page, 1st post). There you will find some great coping techniques. Apply them and incorporate them into your life.

One of my most helpful coping exercises is coming on here to receive and give support and encouragement. You are among your peers and can learn so much from them. I encourage you to come on here every chance you get and keep us informed of your progress!

I look forward to hearing and learning more about you!

God blessy you!

My anxiety started in childhood and really got in the way when I was 18. DO NOT feel silly going to the doctor. If your doctor makes you feel that way it's time to get another doctor. You are not crazy or silly so don't even bother yourself with those thoughts.

Please see your doctor and/or a therapist if you can. Keep us posted. I remember vividly how scared I was when I was going through this at your age. If you get help now it will make a huge difference in the rest of your life.