Seeking Understanding

[oppossum]

I've had a random onset of severe anxiety and panic attacks. It started with one panic attack and since then I have been constantly making effort to direct my thoughts and body. I am exhausted and scared. My panic attacks include my hands, arms, face, and sometimes neck all becoming paralyzed. I can't speak, I can't even move a finger. I feel as if I've lost all control and am constantly in fear of the anxiety itself (on top of being terrified that I will die in my sleep, my car is going to blow up while I'm driving, etc.) . This all began labor day this year. I have never experienced anxiety of this kind or anywhere near this level throughout my entire life, and now I cannot escape it. I am desperate to find someone who I can relate to and speak with (I have a therapist and psychiatrist, I'm seeking out support groups/individuals).

i made this my bio - but realized i should form it into a post. i don't know anyone who has the paralyzing effect i have when they have panic attacks, and it would mean a lot to me if i could. there are a lot more details in between here, im trying not to write a whole book in this post.

[Marysblue]

That sounds awful. I have anxiety but not to that extent. What are your providers trying to help you with?

[Agora1]

Hi oppossum. I'd like to Welcome you to a safe place that offers suport, understanding

and caring. I totally understand what you are feeling both physically and emotionally.

I too at one time felt as you did regarding feeling paralyzed during my panic attack. The

days following would prompt me to be in one long continuous anticipational anxiety.

I felt as if I were always fearful that something would happen. Afraid?? but not knowing

what I was afraid of.

The first thing I am wondering is what happened on Labor Day? Something seems to

have left an indelible thought on your subconscious mind. The subconscious mind

has no rhyme or reason and just interprets thoughts on it's own while it replays those

thoughts each and every night as we sleep. From disturbing dreams to wakefulness to

unprovoked symptoms, anxiety takes hold of our every thought.

I went through this and more, at one time becoming Agoraphobic for 5 years straight.

Never venturing out of my home. It was then that I started researching and working

on my issues....Slow but surely, I was eventually able to kick anxiety to the curb.

Since then, I have vowed to pass my success forward and here I am today on this amazing

site. You will find the support and help you need through other's own experiences.

Please know that you are not alone. We will walk the walk with you. xx