Alright, I really need to get this under control. I think talking to people who deal with the same stuff I do would be great. As in, a forum perhaps? Has anyone had any experience with any forums related to either topic? I did some google searching last night, but nothing really jumped out at me.Hello Katie,
I don't have a forum for you but certainly have about 30 years worth of experience. Under control? Not completely, but I do work, raise a family and live life. I guess I am doing OK.
Well thanks hun, that's much appreciated. :)Katie, google panic attacks support groups. There are all kinds of them out there. I thought you were a googler Katie!
And you know I am here too, anytime, Katie love.
I would google panic attack support groups or panic disorder support groups. There would definitely be a forum out there. I will let you know if I come across anything.
http://www.mdjunction.com/forums/panic-attacks-discussions
Something to start with.
Ivillage has tons of message boards..here's one u can check out
http://messageboards.ivillage.com/iv-bhpanic
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/panic_disorder_anxiety_attac k_symptom_treatment.htm#treatmentKatie - I have occasional anxiety/panic type attacks, and mine ALWAYS start with the fearful, deep, thinking and mental images first, and then I start with the physical symptoms.
I always just assumed that's the way a panic attack starts. Interesting that you read that most people start with the physical symptoms first and then procede to the fearful thoughts and mental images.
I wish there was something I could say or do that would help, but mine are so infrequent that I don't even take medication for it.
You really need to see a doctor and discuss your current medication regimen, and see if there's something else that might better control your panic attacks. I'm so sorry you're going through this...
It's okay. Everything for a reason. Who knows what'll come of this!Hi Katie,
Oh, do I know about panic attacks! I've had them on and off for 35 years. However, since being diagnosed hypothyroid and starting Synthroid last year, I haven't had so much as a twinge of panic. I believe I may have always been slightly hypothyroid -- but when the normal range was lowered a few years ago I finally tested "high" and was treated. No more panic attacks.
Have you had a blood test for thyroid recently?
My daughter had her first panick attack when she was 13. My husband was bringing her into the hospital to see me when I was on life support. She scared him so much that he thought he would end up with both of us in there. She has had a few since. But doesnt take anything for them as they are so far and few between. But thats the problem she never knows when it will hit as there doesnt seem to be one reason that causes them.
Katie, I had panic attacks for awhile. Mine, I was told, started when I got sick with my thyroid. I didn't know I had Graves, until my symptoms were bad. Then it took about two years to find a Dr who could diagnose me. I had been having panic attacks for two years by then. I, like you and Gale started with the fearful thinking too first, not the shallow breathing and such.... Dr who diagnosed me with Graves sent me to a therapist, who specalized in anxiety/panic attacks. What the Dr said was, it didn't matter what caused them to start. Once you start having them, they are hard to stop. The therapist told me when I started the fearful thinking, to do my deep breathing. concentrate on my breathing. To keep repeating to myself, I'm relaxed & listen to my breathing. Then he taught me visualization (sp?). It wasn't easy for me, I had to practice lots! But for me that did help. I know for some it doesn't help at all. I know how awful panic attacks are. Good luck at your Drs appointment. I'll be thinking about you.
Lori
Katie this is what seems to help me. I start feeling it build so I work on my breathing and think "breathe in thru my nose, blow out through my mouth." It helps take my mind away from the panic. Then I also visualize. Try to let your mind take you to the most pleasant place you have ever been. Keep working on the breathing and let your mind try to go off and relax in your favorite place.