What is Panic and Anxiety?
Panic and anxiety can present themselves in many ways. Have you ever felt like you were at the mercy of your emotions? Have you ever felt a rush of emotions that made you think you were sick, dying, or losing your mind? Have you ever felt dizzy, shaky, short of breath, or frightened for no reason at all? If you have experienced these symptoms, it's a good chance that you are experiencing panic and/or anxiety.
How Will I Know If It's Happening?
Anxiety makes you feel like you are really nervous. "Panic attacks," happen when anxiety is severe. When you are having a panic attack you will feel like you are out of control.
- Panic Attack and Anxiety Symptoms
- difficulty breathing
- sweating
- chest pain
- dizziness or faintness
- feelings of unreality or detachment
- trembling or shaking
- tingling or numbness
- nausea or abdominal distress
- choking or smothering sensations
- fear of going crazy
- fear of losing control
" There is a general idea that recreation is all right if you don't take it too seriously. Perhaps there is a much greater danger in not taking it seriously enough."
How Some People Cope
People use different methods of coping when they are having panic attacks and anxiety.
Some are healthy while others may unhealthy. The following techniques are three unhealthy ways that individuals may use to deal with panic and/or anxiety.
Avoidance - Overeating, drinking a large amount of coffee, excess sleep, overuse of prescription medication and/or other drugs.
Distraction - Overworking,, always focusing on others, daydreaming.
Drugs and Alcohol - This is a dangerous way to cope because you may become addicted to the substance.
These are ways to help ease your anxiety, but they are not always the best and healthiest methods to use.
Healthy Ways to Cope
Deep Breathing - When you find yourself becoming anxious, breathe deeply. This will help ease your anxiety and may help lessen the chance of a panic attack.
Positive Self-Talk - Sounds crazy but it's true. If you tell yourself over and over that you are okay and you are in control, it will help to keep you aware of what's really going on around you.
Be Aware - Be aware of what's going on around you. Be aware of how you are feeling and what's causing you to feel that way. Is it a certain person, a certain situation etc. Knowing what's causing your anxiety, will help you to gain knowledge of your situation and therefore help you gain more control.
Additional Links on the Topic
SELF-HELP ON PANIC AND ANXIETY DISORDERS
Topics include: Anger Management (Rules/Goals/Controlling), Fitness and Nutrition, Relaxation, Self-Help & Stress Management
