Tips for constant ongoing low level anxiety attack

[FauxLiz]

I woke up this morning with what can only be described as a low level anxiety attach that I can't seem to kick. I have taken all my meds and don't want to take more than I should/prescribed but nothing seems to be helping. I am constantly short of breath unless I take the time to focus but once I think things are under control and focus on other things it is right back. I have an awful sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach and what can only be called the jitters/tremors.

I don't know what is going on but I do know that this is driving me crazy, I am struggling at work today and its not a day I can leave early.

 

[Abstract]

I relate to having those periods. SOrry to hear its like that. I sometimes a pashmina and wrap it really tightly around me. Splash face with cold water and put cold water down back. If can stomach it do kind self talk. Affrimations. Can you take a quick little walk outside?

 

[FauxLiz]

@Abstract I tried the walk earlier. I am sitting at worked wrapped up in a cardigan and I tried an ice pack earlier. I do appreciate your help I am just feeling like I am in uncharted water here

 

[blackemerald1]

Hey @FauxLiz how are you feeling now? Has the attack lessened or is it still severe? Just reaching out. :hug:

 

[FauxLiz]

Hi @blackemerald1 the attack hasn't lessened. It just sits there bubbling like a pan of water just simmering on the verge of boiling. I had to cancel my appt this with with current T due to a work conflict not that seeing him helps all that much I just feel like something has to give soon.

 

[blackemerald1]

Could you go to your GP and get him to check out your heart etc., Are you definitely sure it's a panic attack? I know you KNOW how panic/anxiety attacks feel... just want eliminate any other cause before you 'just wait for it to go away'.

I mean I had one early this year that lasted for around four weeks. It drove me to my GP - I looked like I was having a heart attack... pale, sweaty rapid thready irregular pulse etc., etc., She wanted to hospitalise me for a day or two to make me rest. I didn't want to do that. It was just terrible. I was exhausted and I was convinced after maybe 10 days I would die... so I really do feel for you.

I'm sure you have tried all the usual things to help ease it so I won't remind you.

Just keep reaching out here.. okay? :hug:

 

[FauxLiz]

Going to see my GP isn't really an option. I haven't transferred to a physician closer since my move in July so my GP is 3 hrs away. Not a big deal normally as I see my headache specialist every three months and they are only 30 minutes away from each other so I get my normal checkups etc handled that way. And you are right I do know the difference between a panic attack and a heart issue as I had cardiac issues in my early 20's connected to hyperthyroidism that hospitalized me several times due to tachycardia. Panic attacks while having similar symptoms feel different to me.

 

[blackemerald1]

What do you think triggered this sustained anxiety attack?

For me it was several issues that I had no control over that had plagued me for about a year.

 

[FauxLiz]

crappy T, SI, booking travel to my hometown for the holidays which is the location of childhood neglect, molestation by my brother, a near fatal car accident and three rapes and a gang rape all before I turned 18 and the last several items having anniversaries between now and mid-February. So honestly not a good time to be uncomfortable in therapy and feeling like I don't have a supportive T.

 

[blackemerald1]

So honestly not a good time to be uncomfortable in therapy and feeling like I don't have a supportive T.

No... this is a really bad time for you to not have that support.

I'm sorry. What do you think you can do to get through this period unscathed. What is your plan?

 

[FauxLiz]

@blackemerald1 my plan is to try and find a different T. I did the unthinkable today and reached out to my previous T, I know he won't respond but it helped for a short time. I am continuing to try and brainstorm other ideas and though I had to cancel my session for this week due to an unavoidable/unchangable work conflict I think I am going to have to be honest with current T that things aren't working. It came up once before but we had only done three in person sessions so I wanted to make sure I gave things an honest shot but now it has been long enough to recognize that it isn't going to get better.

 

[Abstract]

I think its fine you contacted him. Also think its OK to accept that someone isn't going to work and look for someone different. As quickly as possible would be my thought on it. I know there are insurance and other stuff you are managing so you know best. You are heading in the right direction.So so sorry all that is on your plate past wise.