Anxiety Symptoms

[Brigl]

Hello,

I have been struggling in an anxiety cycle for the past 5 months. This week I have been really struggling with anxiety related to my breathing. It comes and goes through the day but that feeling of panic is always hanging over me. I can’t stop wondering if this is something serious or if it’s just anxiety. I have been really trying to let go but when that feeling in my chest and throat comes back it’s really hard to ignore it. Has anyone gone through something similar? And how did you manage it?

[NotaTudor]

I feel like I’m having a similar experience to yours, with a few differences. I always feel like my heart is either beating too fast and hard or is in my throat. I am constantly in fight or flight mode until my body is just so exhausted that I have to sleep. I was diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder years ago but now I am moving into what I feel is a more specific panic disorder. Taking deep breaths does help sometimes, so does staying distracted, but that only works for so long. I don’t have answer to help you, but at least you know you’re not alone.

[Hidden]

I've had the same feeling for about the past year. Once or twice it got very bad; I could not catch my breath nor just breathe normally. It was like I forgot how, if that's possible. I did use the "paper bag" breathing method and it did help. I can't even say what was going on prior, it's blocked out . I know there are various drugs to help with anxiety. I choose to try harder "living in the moment". As simple as it sounds, it isn't. I will say this ....it does keep me from spiraling toward the "unknown" (future) and "spinning" about what I cannot change (the past) and helps keep me grounded to what is going on around me.

[Brigl in reply to Hidden]

That’s exactly how I feel I focus on it so much it’s like I forgot how to breath normal

[Hidden in reply to Brigl]

Isn't it horrifying?! I don't think I have ever been so scared. It hasn't happened again since I've been trying to be more aware of the present. I empathize with you totally. I hope you find peace and contentment soon