I couldn't say for certain, because I don't really know you, but it sounds like your coping mechanisms are habitual.

Your automatic responses to deal with stressful situations became habit, becuase it is not only your natural reaction, but also ...it has worked for you. Just because your situation has changed, doesn't necessarily mean that your body knows the difference. A spike in adrenaline can be from stress or elation, therefore your default reaction is already in place.

I've had similar experiences where my body didn't know the difference between a panic attack and actually feeling happy. I had to make the conscious decision to know the difference. I know it might sounds a bit "new age" but a combination of meditation, visualizing and deep breathing techniques really helped me.

Once I recongnized that my natural coping mechanism wasn't necessary, I just had to take a few deep breathes and "talk" myself through it. I just kept telling myself that, although, I could seperate myself from the situation, I didn't need to be isolated from it. Knowing I was in a good situation, I could take a deep breathe and make the choice to "be present."

Sometimes, I would kind of ...practice at night when I had some down time. I'd picture myself in a stressful situation and "walk" myself through it. Then, I would do the same with a good situation, and visualize myself reacting to that. Eventually, I could more easily break the pattern of my body's natural response.

Anyways... that is what worked for me. I hope you find what works for you.

By the way, I think it's awesome that you made a plan and moves in the right direction in your life!! You should be proud yourself, even if you think you still have a ways to go. Very impressive!