New here, too. Brand new, never heard of this board. Just had a panic attack and browsed the web to read about others' experiences. Came across your post and saw that there haven't been any responses yet, and I want you to have a response right away.

Yup, the symptoms you describe sound like a panic attack. The symptoms vary by person. I've had some of those that you describe. Been fighting anxiety and panic disorder for the past 20 years. It comes and goes. During good periods, I may not need any meds to cope, but during bad periods I definitely need them.

Go see a psychologist or someone who specializes in anxiety disorder. You're suffering through things that someone your age should never have to cope with. Treatment may mean meds, talking things through with the psychologist, group sessions, or some combination of all of these. I would guess that you'd be put on meds to help you chill out a bit, and then baby steps after that.

In the meantime, contact your friends. I'm much older than you and I've made the mistake of disappearing into the woodwork, not keeping in touch with friends. These are people I love and miss, and yet there's something in me that's screwed up and I feel, well, ashamed of myself and my life and don't get hold of them. Again, you're too young to get into a habit like that. So, right now, go send an email to at least one person you've lost touch with. It doesn't have to be long, just say hi, how are you, I'm doing great (it's okay to tell some white lies). In fact, I'm going to do exactly this myself.

You take care, hang in there, there are lots of folks in your situation.