[Zen888]

Hello Everyone

I have severe anxiety attacks before I have to go to school. My thoughts are racing, feel like vomitting, heart is racing.....list goes on!

How do I stop this cycle of anxiety every day?

Zen888

[digdug]

Zen888, you've made a lot of threads concerning your anxiety about college, but I think you have to provide more detail before we can offer you more concete advice (at least for those of us who are new to this board).

For example, if this is your first year in college, then you are in a different position compared to if you were in third or fourth year, where classes can become more intensive. Is it the newness of college that is giving you anxiety, or the difficulty of the classes you happen to be taking this year/semester?

Most colleges offer quite good counselling services...psychiatric services can vary. At any rate, what exactly is making you anxious? There are a lot of us here who are in school, or have returned to school after many years (like myself) who can perhaps offer you some perspective.

[cantstopcrying]

A good way to stop the anxiety about school is to focus on the goal and breathe. Why are you going to school? What's good about it? Are you anxious because you don't feel comprable to others? If that's it, forget it. You are there for you. I think for the overwhelming feeling someone on another post had a great idea about writing it all down, use a calander or planner. Have more confidence in yourself. You've made it this far in life, no reason to think you won't be able to make it. Remember to look at it in small pieces, not a big chunk.

[Zen888]

Hi Everyone

I had a rough night!! I had a total body anxiety attack or panic attack that lasted for hours. I vomitted up 3 times, my body was shaking the whole time, my heart rate beating fast, and it felt like an electrical pulse through my body. I called the crisis line and they recommended breathing and positive thinking.

I was so exhausted this morning that I didn't make it to my morning class. I am also getting over a bad cold. I feel like a nervous wreck!

I have been in college before but I am returning after several years of being out of college. This time its different. So many little assignments and readings and tests all at once.

I feel like I'm losing my mind.

Zen888

[digdug]

Ah, so you're a returnee to school. Well, there seems to be a lot of us on this board, which you probably already know. I've been back in school for 3 years now, and despite OCD, anxiety, and mild depression, I've made it through, and you can too.

Sounds like you had a pretty bad panic attack last night, though. Are you seeing a psych or a therapist? If not, it sounds like you need professional help, if you're not getting some at the moment.

As for school, I can sympathize. I think college really is made for young men and women. I'm amazed that essays I prepare weeks in advance are sometimes done by my fellow students the weekend before...they just go without sleep for 2-3 days and plough throw the work. And many of them do quite well at this. Us older types have to plan things out a bit more...having said that, we usually have the maturity to do so, so things tend to balance out.

I'm sure there are services at school that will help you manage your time...most colleges are quite good at offering such services. Also, remember that you don't have to do everything perfectly...I tend to skim on readings, for example, and focus on the "big ticket" items like essays and exams. Be strategic, and make sure to plan time to relax. Find a trashy TV show to help you chill out...stuff like that makes a big difference.

I think I get these every Sunday before I go back to school however once I get back into school they go away

[multipixie9]

i would recommend seeking some counseling and possibly some short term anti-anxiety medicine to help you deal with the intense fear you have built up. medicine is not a permanent solution for many of us - it can become an unwanted crutch, but for short term it can really be a help.

be kind to yourself, you did not choose this on purpose, it is just one more thing to overcome in life. Hugs!!!