Ways I cope

I struggle with anxiety, panic attacks, depression, abuse, nightmares... These are things that help me.

First and foremost, is establishing a connection with the world around me. Meditation has been my savior numerous times... When I was stable enough to do so. During meditation you relax your entire body. As you get deeper into it you aren't thinking much and the thoughts you are presented with can be met and recognized calmly and coolly. Meditation is a gift and if you choose to get into it you might discover things about yourself... Gifts you never knew you had. You can feel energy coming from every living thing... And lotsss of loving energy!

When I'm freaking out during or after an attack I can't concentrate. I can't think. I can't sit still. I'm super confused, scared, hurt...
What I've found helps in these situations is mind numbing things like tv... But if you have someone who can be there for you, the best thing is to confide in them. This lifts me up pretty fast.

When I'm depressed I find that getting AWAY is the best medicine. I actually keep an air mattress and camping supplies in my van! but if u can't go camping or take off, creating a secret place somewhere is good too. Someplace you can meditate on light, love and happiness. it's really good to repeat things in your mind and meditate on them like " I want to be happy" " I deserve love" "I am amazing" the power of thought can do wonders! Let happiness and love manifest in your life instead of sadness and hate. Don't think those thoughts. Let go!

Anyway, that's it for now. Hope this helps someone!

Right on about meditation. I was always so cynical toward meditation and most other alternative therapies until recently. Mindfulness in particular is extremely helpful. Are there any particular meditation techniques, guides, etc that you have found especially beneficial?

Another "heck yes" to mind-numbing activity! Another thing I was cynical toward before. Some of us get caught up (well, I do, and I assume others too) in taking everything seriously and not letting our precious time go to waste on frivolous, silly, fluff. But sometimes we need fluff. My go-to: silly Facebook games like You Don't Know Jack, SongPop - or DrawSomething on the iPhone. What TV shows do you enjoy zoning out to?

Also 100% on getting away! Removing yourself from that moment physically.

Thank you so much for this - sometimes reminders are needed when we're caught up in an episode, of ways to cope that aren't unhealthy.

meditation is great

welcome by the way!

regarding tv shows: it really depends. Sometimes I like watch law and order svu... You'd think it could be a trigger but mostly it's not. I like relating. Feeling like I'm understood... Not alone.
Real mind numbing stuff though is cartoons or documentaries on things like conspiracies... These things really chill me.