No relation to Love Potion #9. I recently had a panic attack (5 total in my life). I suffer from social anxiety, which causes isolation, avoidance of relationships, which in turn leads to loneliness and depression...then every few years, it all goes up in flames and I have a full blown panic attack. I'm becoming aware of the cycle of anxiety and depression and am trying to break it with the help of an ACT therapist. I don't take any meds except for insomnia as I'm a long-time recovering addict and don't want to get dependent on chemicals (or I might start abusing them).

I would have never posted on a site like this before so I feel like this a step in the right direction. I feel a little overwhelmed between therapy, journaling, support groups and of course trying to self-diagnose. Right now I'm just trying to learn how to breathe to decrease anxiety. Also forcing myself to interact with people rather than avoid them...getting a little easier. Every day is 3 steps forward, then 2 back. Thanks everyone for sharing your stories.