Increased Panic Attacks After Ptsd Diagnosis

[Kristen Scott]

I am an Army Veteran that was diagnosed with PTSD after 2 deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Recently, I had an increase in the number of panic attacks when I try to sleep or when something triggers my anixety levels .. and I'm finding it harder and harder to calm down.

 

[WillyKat]

Welcome to the forum.

PTSD can be a real roller coaster, spiking up for no apparent reason, then settling down. One thing I've noticed often is that sometimes the healing process itself can sometimes make it seem worse. Let me use an example, let's say a PTSD sufferer starts therapy and they make a lot of rapid process, they began feeling safe, comfortable with the therapist. Then wham…all sorts of other crap starts happening. Things you haven't thought of before or at least never bothered you so much start to cause you problems.

So it might appear like some kind of relapse or that things are getting worse. But…it is still progress. I've experienced this over and over and over. It can be a real pain and make you wonder why you bother. But have faith, once you start making progress, you start taking on more challenges and it feels harder.

I hope that helps. I'm not being very clear with my posts today.

 

[Deleted member 24866]

Welcome, don't forget what helps you relax and can take your mind off of things..yet while honoring your time to process. Create a routine has helped me, its in times of change and transition I have the hardest time. Music is extremely therapeutic for me, a hot bath or massage if you can find one, love yourself girl.. Don't expect as much in times of trial. I assume you have a therapist.. and glad to see you here. I find the diary entry a cathartic place..but not one I want to visit everyday.

Sometimes I have to write my coping strategies down- so if it gets to muddied, I don't have to remember, I look and try to apply my own advice. Works for me, carry it with me. I know it gets frustrating but you are not alone. Prayers your way!