Natural routes for panic?

[DustinS85]

Instead of Benzodiazepines for panic attacks...are there non-addictive and more natural ways that can alleviate the extreme panic?

[jkl5500]

I'm assuming that you checked out OK at the ER today, and that your symptoms today were thought by the doctors to be caused by anxiety.

There probably are non-prescription substances to lower anxiety, and some web searches will uncover a few. But for "hard core" panic attacks like the kind you had today, I personally would not be afraid to use benzos in the short term to get things under control. I've used Ativan on an "as needed" basis for the last 18 months, and had no ill effects of any sort. I hardly ever use it these days, and I had no withdrawal problems of any kind when I stopped taking it regularly.

[DustinS85 in reply to jkl5500]

My family has addiction issues with alcohol and my mom was addicted to Xanax and alcohol. That’s why I worry.

[jkl5500 in reply to DustinS85]

I never took Xanax myself. I can see why you're worried about this. Why not see your GP and tell him all this? He could tell you how addictive Ativan is better than I could. And of course, don't start drinking.

[DustinS85 in reply to jkl5500]

I hate being drunk...so no worries there. I have an appointment with psychiatrist next week to discuss this. I don’t like feeling inebriated at all. Honestly I wasn’t a big fan of the Ativan either, but it took that edge away from that attack.

[jkl5500 in reply to DustinS85]

The psychiatrist can find some med that agrees with you better. The more you tell him, the better he can help you. Write it all down and bring it with you if you have to. I've done that many times. Good luck.

[DustinS85 in reply to jkl5500]

Way ahead of ya on writing things down. LOL

[DustinS85 in reply to jkl5500]

And...yes everything was normal and it was panic attack.

[Want2BHappy3 in reply to jkl5500]

The medication you mentioned prescribed?

[jkl5500 in reply to Want2BHappy3]

Yes, Ativan is only available by prescription.

[Want2BHappy3 in reply to jkl5500]

Thanks