It's not ridiculous, it's a very real problem you have!

I've only ever had one really bad panic attack and I just waited it out because the logical side of me is nice and strong and was able to look around and see the blue sky, think about what was going on with my actual day and the plans for the next, etc. and see there was no reason at all that I should be feeling like I did. Eventually it subsided.

Maybe you could experiment with your panic attacks? Do something like go out in your backyard in the middle of the day (where there probably are literally no people around?) and have an attack, just sit in a lawn chair or face your house (so no one can see your face) and try to do some "chore" like raking old leaves or getting a garden bed ready for Spring planting) and when it subsides, keep working on whatever you're doing and see if/when another attack starts? Make up a mantra, "It will end, it will end. . ." and keep reminding yourself you're afraid of being afraid rather than anything actually happening in your life at the moment and see how it goes, how much time you have between attacks, etc. The "sweet spot" :-) when there isn't an attack. If you get "clinical" and scientific about it, maybe it will let up some or you'll learn something interesting (panic attack, 2 minutes; sweet spot, 8 minutes -- what can you get done/experience of life in 8 minutes :-)

Interesting article: http://www.healthyplace.com/Communit...y/causes_3.asp