[Backlash2012]

Hey! I have panic and probably GAD disorder and thought I would share with you some things that have worked and not worked.
All my stresses seemed to have came to a head in January this year where I developed my panic disorder. I am a professional with a very busy life and before this, I was always the person that was the signature of strength, fun, humour, talent, smarts, and the one people could come to for just about anything and rely on. I missed two weeks of work where all I could do was lay on the couch in fear of another panic attack which came up to about three times per day and lasted for about 20 minutes.
Finally I got taken to a doctor and he prescribed effexor 75 mg and ativan when needed. I am scared of pills because at first, I got a panic attack from taking ativan. I only took 37.5 effexor and relucantly, took 0.5 mg ativan. This did calm my racing thoughts down but still woke up with adrenaline surges. What added to the anxiety, was looking up everything from drug side effects, to symptoms, cures, and stories of anxiety on the net. This is a terrible mistake and dont do it! Next I started seeing a psychologist who was quite genuine and assured me I would be fixed of this condition using proven techniques like EMDR. Going back to work, I started feeling anxious and panicky even there and somehow made it through the day... I used to love my morning coffee but havent touched a drop since this happened. Sometimes I would stay in the bathroom until ativan took effect so I could work. After all the pills, the treatments, doctors, the excessive worrying, the craziness of this condition, I have come to realize the only real cure is to face the fear and anxiety head on and understand that panic is a temporary condition and only lasts for a few minites and soon you'll be ok. Look at it like a long sneeze. Right now, I still get the anxious thoughts, but the panic attacks seem to be under control. I have been off the effexor for a few days now with no issues yet, and got a new prescription for ativan. I still am not yet comfortable going far from the house, but that will be my next step. I broke the 0.5 ativan in half and had one a few days ago. So, give yourself patience, no your limits, get support, talk about it, dont research this condition cause it will drive you crazy, take your pills, and dont fear this crap...when you feel you have the strength, go somewhere that may bring on a panic attack..once it comes, just say ok come have your fun for a minute or two cause I have to get on with my life and this is annoying me. You will be better because this has a shelf life....like any annoying condition like a cold or flu.

[Little Lulu]

I am new here but I agree that too much time on the Internet looking up anxiety, med side effects, etc. is not helpful. Been there, done that and it only made me spookier. I have had anxiety in varying forms for most of my life but worse in the last 13 years. The most important thing you mentioned for me is being honest about it and talking about it in a safe environment and with people who are trustworthy plus asking for help when you need it. Here is an example of progress for me:

Yest. I went to a somewhat new church for me and was anxious about going forward for communion. I told a friend sitting nearby that I was a little nervous and could I go with her. She gladly agreed. I was still anxious but I made it through and came home feeling successful. That was progress for me.