stopping an attack

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-29-2005
stopping an attack
3
Mon, 09-19-2005 - 12:12pm

a few years ago I was on paxil for generalized anxiety disorder that was interfering with my school-life. I guess I was on paxil for about 1 to 1.5 years or so, and this was about 3-4 years ago now...

anyhow, it seems my anxiety has returned. It seems to come mostly when I drive or am working out at the gym (ESPECIALLY after an intense cardio session...it doesn't happen *during* the session, but afterwards when I'm cooling down... anyone heard of this??)

I get that gaspy feeling, the need for escape, that I'm going "crazy," shaky, irritable, and fidgety, plus I get hot and cold.

while I recognize that what I am going through will pass, and LOGICALLY I know nothing bad will happen if the symptoms of the attack continue, I am wondering if anyone has good tips for shortening and/or STOPPING the attack before they progress... thank you all.

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-02-2004
Mon, 09-19-2005 - 4:54pm
I know what you mean. I get the intense fear that I am going crazy and the hot/cold chills. I usually get sick at my stomach too. I try to tell myself that it will pass and that it is not going to kill me, but it is so hard when you are in that moment. I know that all too well. I am on Zoloft and that seems to help me from going into a full blown attack. Before that, nothing seemed to work. Getting into busy areas with crowds like bookstores or just around people doing things did help some. I guess it changed my focus for the time being.
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-11-2004
Mon, 09-19-2005 - 9:30pm

It's nice to have you here. Wish it was under better circumstances): I think you have a very healthy attitude towards the anxiety. How we allow it to effect us or NOT effect us will ultimately determine our recovery. You know how to do it. You used the tools @ your disposal in the past. You need to put your former plan into action.


Facing the anxiety/fear is the best approach. Thank goodness you continue to exercise & drive. Keep the symptoms you experience in perspective. Think positively when they sneak into your mind. Have you used breathing, meditation, yoga, relaxation exercises, etc? Here is a good link to many ways to cope. http://health.ivillage.com/mentalhealth/mhanxiety/0,,qnd2,00.html


Others will be along to share their thoughts. Pleae feel free to post anytime & join in our discussions. You are NOT alone. We care & want you to be successful @ dealing with the anxiety bug. Check out our chat schedule @ the top of this page. We'll save you a seat. Good luck & GBU! (((hugs))) jan



 

 


 



iVillage Member
Registered: 07-21-2004
Tue, 09-20-2005 - 12:43am
Hi There, I too get those same feelings. I am sorry to hear you are having troubles again. I was recently prescribed Zoloft, and my pdoc says that these feelings will not be as severe after I am on this med for a while....Jan had some good tips, I hope they help!
I'm sure others will be chiming in too! Good Luck, and please post soon and let us know how you are doing,k?
hugs, shasta