Panic attacks are ruining my life. The meds I take do not help. Escitalopram, Effexor, Modafinil (for excess sleeping) and Venlafaxine.

[retiredleo]

Meds are not helping panic attacks

[Agora1]

Hi retiredleo...Meds only go so far. They are meant to take the edge off but usually are not the answer to complete relief of panic/anxiety attacks. It is usually best when first started on medications to also have had therapy to go along with it. Talk therapy brings up the problem in where the panic stems from. Unless you address that issue, eventually the meds loose their efficiency.

There are other methods/tools that we need to look into that can help quiet our minds and bodies. In the form of meditation, deep breathing, CBT, Mindfulness, self hypnosis etc... We all have something that works for us alone. Using these methods along with meds and/or therapy give you a better chance in winning over panic and fear.

A book I might suggest is "Hope & Help for your Nerves" by Dr Claire Weekes. An easy to read book where you will find yourself talked about over and over. You see we all have the same responses to stress no matter where the root of the problem stems. Acceptance is the key to ridding ourselves of the dreaded symptoms. The more we fight the harder the symptoms hang on. When we Accept that these symptoms are not harmful but just a manifestation coming from our brain, we can better get on with our lives and no longer allow Anxiety/Panic to control us. We have the power within us to win. And you will. x