Panic Attack And Large Crowds

[TigerPride]

Dear Chris,
I too have had neck injuries, (plate and screws). I am a Christain and a U.S. Vet 100% disabled. I have to sit in the back row of church and near the door. I can't sit still due to chronic severe pain and other health issues. Then there is the mental issues of ptsd. I take an ativan 1/2 hr prior to church and bring something small that i like (keepsake) such as a photo and look at it and hold it during service. I also arrive late 5 min. and leave during last song to avoid exiting crowds and noise. When the pastor yells to emphasize the point I cringe and count or spell in my head. As a youth pastor I know your faith will grow as you meet each moment with sucess even if its minute by minute. Work up to each realistic and small goals at a time. It gives you a good sense of self esteem and increases the ability to be thankful for our challanges from ptsd as a believer.
Best wishes and you are now added to my prayer list.
sincerely,
sunday

wow Sunday,I totally get the cringing every time the preacher speaks loudly, and arriving late and leaving early.

 

[ClairBear226]

Tiger, I know someone that has a similar issue with church. He's said it helps to be in the back. Ever try that?

 

[TigerPride]

yeah,I try to sit towards the back, to avoid being "penned in" when I can, but I go with my parents, and my mom likes sitting midways cause she's hard of hearing....

 

[Deaf Global Nomad]

I'm with all of you who hate crowds. My anxiety skyrockets and I start flapping and then dissociating.

In grocery stores I have a particular problem waiting in the check-out line. I think it's standing in one place that makes me antsy. Plus the credit card payments cause problems. I usually have to send through my card through 4-6 times. There have been times I have needed to leave the groceries there and run out.

I avoid malls where there is lots of commotion which easily overstimulates me. My service dog helps, especially finding the way out.

When we have our way we spend time outside in nature. Luckily Minnesota is full of them.