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Old Aug 19, 2007, 11:33 PM
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beautifulconfusion beautifulconfusion is offline
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Member Since: Aug 2007
Location: Ohio
Posts: 45
I'm sorry you're experiencing this, sunflower... that must hurt like hell. It's not because of you, though. It's not your fault that you are having panic attacks... you're in pain, and you need support & understanding. Unfortunately there is still a lot of ignorance & stigma surrounding mental disorders. Maybe you could print off some basic info & statistics about Anxiety disorders to share with her? They're actually quite common, I think something like 16% of the US population experience some form of anxiety disorder at some point in their lives (don't quote me on that, though, my memory's not so great! hehe)

Also, would you feel comfortable talking with her about how you feel? (or writing a letter, if that would be easier) Explain that you're feeling vulnerable/scared/super-stressed/(insert whatever you like) right now & it has been difficult to share these feelings. Your panic attacks aren't a means of "acting out" to get attention, and there is not always going to be something wrong. But for right now, while you're in crisis, you need her support. Really, she should feel honored that you trusted her enough to share with her about your anxiety... I hope that she will learn to be more understanding... & of course there are plenty of kind folks on here who understand what anxiety is like & will offer support -- you're not alone!

Good luck, and keep in touch... feel free to PM me if you want. Wishing you gentle waves of peace, serenity, & relief...
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"A heavy downpour of rain. Stand and face the rain, let its steel rays pierce you, float in the water that wants to carry you with it, but hold fast all the same, just stand up straight and wait for the sudden and endless shining of the sun" --Kafka