What do you do when you are really scared and you can't stop feeling that way?

Question

I suffer from panic attacks and have PTSD and I find it very hard to have a "normal" life. There are times when I get very scared and for no real reason at all. I am taking paxil right now and have taken it before. I have even tried therapy and different meds but nothing seem to work. I would like any advice anyone might be able to offer. Thanks

Answer 1

I too suffer from panic attacks. This is a new thing for me, most likely brought on by my having to take other medications for other physical maladies. I have however suffered with PTSD for years. The equation to better mental health and a happier and calmer life is: Find a GREAT therapist, find a GREAT psychiatrist, begin meditating or doing yoga or breathing exercises especially designed to relax you and have faith in yourself and God. If you don't believe in God that's O.K. too. Turn to whatever spiritual path brings you peace. And Most Important when having a panic attack and or PTSD episode: slow your mind down, slow your breathing down, focus on something near you like a beloved pet or something soothing in your mind and when you are calm enough CALL someone you love and who loves you. Or call your therapist, many of them are on call for emergencies, PTSD and panic attacks are not easy fixers. They take a lot of energy and dedication to live relatively freely with them in your life. You need to seek professional help both medically and theraputically. Don't give up. Good Luck

Answer 2

When I was younger I suffered uncontrollable panic attacks. For no reason at all, I was constantly scared and felt an uncontrollable fear which radiated from the pit of my stomach. Until you experience this for yourself it is hard to describe how debilitating it can be. Never seeking medical treatment I experienced some unusual life experiences which forced me to realize that fear can be controlled by your mind. I hate to use the cliche, 'Mind over Matter,' but that is indeed exactly what it is.
Meditation has worked wonders. For 5 minutes a day after you wake, sit Indian style and attempt to completely clear your mind. No thoughts just breathe deeply in and out and realize that no matter what happens the end is death, so before death comes try to be as focused as possible on what you want out of life. No matter how much fear you have you will be able to face any obstacle that comes your way. Fear is the unknown once you face your fear you can overcome it. Clear your mind and focus. Psychotic drugs like Paxil help to control your mind to avoid fear instead of empowering you to do it. Focus on your PTSD experience and do not let it make you a slave. You control your mind and can handle any experience, if you focus on what you want. Its not easy but if you can face your fear you can do anything. This kind of positive mental attitude, which does not come easy, will work wonders. Sit idle 5 minutes a day and breathe deeply, its just that simple.

Answer 3

Wow, what are you so afraid of? Try to think back to when your panick attacks started. Did something happen in your life that was traumatic or life altering?

Did you start taking some new medication around that time? Sometimes a chemical change can cause what seems like a panic attack. I know I used to get them in the dental office every time they did a filling...felt like I was going to die....turns out it was the Novacaine they give you to speed up the numbing process...it causes flushing and increased heart beat simulating a panic attack.

There really is nothing to be afraid of. You should try counselling instead of medication. Meds can cure one thing and cause a dozen other problems.

Answer 4

I feel your pain. I too suffer from panic attacks and have felt fear of absolutely nothing for no real reason. I've come to realize that the first step is to recognize the feelings of panic and or fear. Once you recognize you are having an attack, calm yourself, tell yourself that you are having irrational thoughts, take some deep breaths, convince yourself you are stronger than this and can overcome this momentary feeling and that everthing will be fine.

Works for me and I don't take any meds - my mind alters itself enough I don't need help with that.

Answer 5

I SUFFER from panic attacks. I wrap up in a blanket, and lay down and rock back and forth. I pray. i quote this verse: God does not give a spirit of fear. But of love, power and of sound mind! I also combat the fear with the truth- like if I start thinking that i can not breath, i tell myself I can breath because I take in a deep breath, it feel good. I talk myself Thur it. Truth dispels lies!

Answer 6

Pray, do a breathing technique and exercise. The breathing technique is taking a deep breath and filling your cheeks with air and push down your diaphram and hold your breath for a count of 20. They do this for when your heart beats really fast for no reason. Exercise will help you get your mind off of it and make you feel like you are doing something and has physical and chemical changes that happen. Praying is great because God created your body and has control over its functions, He CAN help you.

Answer 7

That must really suck and I wish I had an answer that I knew would work but I'm pretty sure if you believe in God and go to church and praise him because you love him and ask him to help you with your attacks he will help you find away not to be scared. I hope one day you find something or someone to help you not be afraid.

Answer 8

Have faith and belief in yourself, God and the people you really care for. Consolidate all your inner and outer strengths whenever possible, especially, at times when you panic. Slowly, the panicking will vanish. Good Luck!

Answer 9

I suffer from anxiety too. I have good days and bad days. I know exactly how you feel. Sometimes I wonder if the terapist really understand how bad it can be. I take Prozac.

Answer 10

Pray