Almost constant worry about my young adult kids ..especially my daughter

..

Hello everyone.

I'm posting for the first time here. I have been having panic attacks off and on for several years. Lately, it's been way worse. I don't know what to do to get them under control. I'm hoping I'll gain some insight here.

Lately, I've been having full on panic attacks involving worry over my young adult children...especially my 20 year old daughter.
I worry about everything related to her. When I know she's driving , especially in the winter, I completely freak out. If she is planning to drive a little distance, my panic attacks begin days in advance of her drive. Usually late at night it hits me and I start crying and my breathing rate gets really fast.

Or if I think of her moving into a new apt where she will live alone, I panic.


It's either I worry about this kind of stuff or I worry about my son when he goes skiing and the same panic attack hits me.

I can't sleep at night because of worry. I actually fight going to bed until I have no choice because I'm so tired. Then, often, just as I'm falling asleep, I wake up gasping for air and in a full on panic attack.

I don't know what to do to handle this.

Does anyone else have this sort of experience?

I feel so alone. :(

Any kind response would be appreciated.

Hello and welcome!

I am sorry to hear of your anxiety, and how consuming it has become. All parents worry to some extent about their children...but when it takes over and effects our quality of life and health, it is time to seek help.

I second Hibee's recommendation of talking with your doctor about your experience, and exploring your treatment options.

For now, we have some therapy worksheets that you can take a look at in our Resources. These challenge worries, and help us develop rational thought processes. Our Resources can be found at the top of the main page here. Or, at your request, I will post the direct link right here for you.:)

Keep talking with us, support is key!

Scaredy Cat

Please read Blu's Mama's most recent post. She shares a nice quote daily.

...something to the effect of... most of the things we worry about will never happen.

We have five, the youngest is in the Army as a combat medic.
No, its not easy for parents -- even long after our babies have left the nest. My Grand Daddy still worried about his kinds when he was in his 90's. But he told me that my job was to raise an independent young man/woman.

Yes, sometimes I have to remind myself of that over and over and over. But I know I have provided my kiddos with the best tools I could. Now I get to see what kind of life they build.

As suggested, because this is effecting your life so much, please talk with you dr. They can help you relax and learn to enjoy the show.
good luck