Take it from someone with Panic Disorder

Anxiety disorders are one of the fastest growing diagnosed disorders. I myself suffer from Panic Disorder and Social Phobia. I have battled them for several years and if it were not for the help of my therapist, my friends, and a support group; I would most likely still be living the life of solitude that only agoraphobics can understand.

For people who have never had an anxiety attack or even worse a panic attack it is almost impossible to understand what the other person is going through. Sure people can try to empathize, but most of the time they really just do not get it. I have heard that hundreds of times "What's the big deal, you're just nervous". My favorite is "Just relax". Don't you think if it were that easy, we would?

If only they truly understood. It's like being nervous times a million. You are light headed, nauseous, air seems to be disappearing, you are positive you are going crazy, your heart is beating a million miles an hour, you're hot, you're cold, and you feel as if the world is closing in on you. That is to just name a few of the more common symptoms of an anxiety attack. As someone who was agoraphobic for two years, I can tell you how to combat these attacks. Let me say here however, that just because this is the combination that worked for me, does not mean it is the right combination for you. You have to pick and choose what feels comfortable and push yourself from there.

First and foremost is to be able to understand that you are not going to die. NO ONE has ever gone crazy or died from an anxiety attack. Repeat that to yourself as often as possible. Whether you are not anxious or are having a full on attack, remember that. No matter how bad it gets, you will get better. It will stop, and you will be fine. Positive thinking to counteract all the negativity in your head is key. This will help you stay in a situation and face it instead of fleeing.

Second is to breathe. Not just normal breathing either. People with anxiety disorders tend to breathe shallowly. To fend off an anxiety attack you must breathe deeply. Place your hand on your stomach and take a deep breath. If you feel your hand move up then it was a deep enough breath. Hold it for several seconds and then let it out slowly. Do this at least five or six times. It has been said that breathing deep is the bodies' natural defense against anxiety, you cannot be anxious if you are breathing deeply and relaxing yourself.

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

---

Add your voice

Know something about Ways to combat anxiety attacks?
We want to hear your view. Write now!