I'm Going Bananas

[Lolly]

First off - Hi! I'm Lolly. Newbie around this unfamiliar internet territory.

So I have had PTSD for about a year now. A couple of months ago, I started suffering with panic attacks. They didn't happen often, so I tried to think little of them. Then, last Monday, I just felt constantly FREAKED OUT!! My chest hurts all the time, bad headache constantly, I shake A LOT, I can't keep still and my hands are constantly clenched. I actually cut my hand today because I was clenching my hands together so tight that my (short) nails cut my hands. Most importantly, though, I am just scared all the time.

Because of all the abuse, I have always kept to myself. Sit in my room most of the time, don't go out unless its necessary (or if I have a very good friend going too), but over the past week, that has all changed. I cannot be on my own. If I am left on my own, I start to hyperventilate. I have fainted three times because of being on my own. (each time happening when I'm on my own at night when everyone else is tucked up asleep)

Do you guys through these types of phases? If so, how do you cope with them? Deep breathing doesn't work for me. I've found the only thing that really calms me down is having either a hot drink/food and watching something very funny (ex. Good Mythical Morning on YouTube!). But, I can't do that when I'm out and about, so I also wondered if you guys had any tips and tricks?

Thank you! I hope you are all feeling as well as possible today.

PS,

It has been made known to me that perhaps I should start anti-anxiety meds, but I don't want to straightaway. Are you on any? If so, how long did you cope with your anxiety before you started the tablets?

 

[Deleted member 12723]

I did not get the anxiety and panic attacks until four years ago, I became a full time caregiver to my husband with dementia. I never struggled with this type of anxiety before. I had anxiety yes, but I could at least function and could drive well.

I am on a cocktail of anti depressants to help me to become stable which is working for me since my husband died a year and a half ago. I moved in with my daughter and her two lovely daughters since I could not stand being alone by myself as I would dwell on negative thoughts.

If you are willing to try medication be aware that it takes a while to find the right medication that best works for you.

I never fainted and just a suggestion but would you consider going to to your doctor to have this symptom checked out for health reasons?

I wish you the very best in what ever you decide to do. It does get better as time passes and you learn coping skills that will work for you.

 

[Lolly]

I did not get the anxiety and panic attacks until four years ago, I became a full time caregiver to my husband with dementia. I never struggled with this type of anxiety before. I had anxiety yes, but I could at least function and could drive well.

I am on a cocktail of anti depressants to help me to become stable which is working for me since my husband died a year and a half ago. I moved in with my daughter and her two lovely daughters since I could not stand being alone by myself as I would dwell on negative thoughts.

Thank you for the reply. I am so sorry to hear about your husband, I hope you are coping :)

I have been to the dr about the fainting, we thought I was having a heart problem, so they're keeping an eye on that. I have tried several different anti-depressants to help the PTSD & anxiety, but nothing is touching it so far. Beta blockers and anti-anxiety meds are on the cards at the mo, but as you said, finding the right meds to work for you takes a while :)

 

[Deleted member 12723]

Lolly you are so sweet. Thank you for being so kind to me. I am coping very well now.

 

[mamachick]

I have had a lot of panic over the years. Right now I seem to be in a state of being overwhelmed constantly for months, or years, Im not even sure when the last time I felt relaxed. I have not been able to get either under control. I go from the daily overwhelmed feeling, to full blown panic attack.

 

[Notsowild]

Hi Lolly Nice to meet you. I have felt panicky and stressed for years. The panic attacks had eased a bit though. But the panicky feeling never really went away. Then since my last trauma they came on stronger plus more panic attacks. Ativan has helped but now I'm on Clonazapam and its working pretty good. Abdominal breathing and mindfullness helps me too. Plus my therapy with my T and my psychiatrist is a tremendous help too. Welcome to the forum.

 

[Lolly]

I have had a lot of panic over the years. Right now I seem to be in a state of being overwhelmed constantly for months, or years, Im not even sure when the last time I felt relaxed. I have not been able to get either under control. I go from the daily overwhelmed feeling, to full blown panic attack.

You've just described exactly how I feel. Sorry you're struggling with it too!! Take care!

Hi Lolly Nice to meet you. I have felt panicky and stressed for years. The panic attacks had eased a bit though. But the panicky feeling never really went away. Then since my last trauma they came on stronger plus more panic attacks. Ativan has helped but now I'm on Clonazapam and its working pretty good. Abdominal breathing and mindfullness helps me too. Plus my therapy with my T and my psychiatrist is a tremendous help too. Welcome to the forum.

Thank you! I think I need to have my therapist teach me mindfulness/belly breathing and perhaps get my GP to find me something to calm me down. I just don't sleep anymore. I'm on high-alert all the time. Lolly needs sleep! :) Take care!