I dont really know how to explain it. But some nights,usually around 1am i wake up,but not normal waking up. I jump 10ft in the air and im uncontrollably shaking, like vigorous seizure shaking except im not having a seizure. My hearts pounding and i feel desperate for the toilet.
I know its a panic attack and i try to stay calm. Usually when i have a panic attack i can feel it coming on so i can try things to prevent it but with this, theres no chance of doing so. When i wake im already in full blown panic attack mode and theres nothing i can do about it.
I've had to wake my parents on countless occasions and have them come sit with me, spam called/text my bf and recently screamed down a hotel room because my boyfriend was in the bathroom at the time.
I do take preventative measures such as going to the toilet before i go to bed and for ages now ive slept with my skype webcam on my ipad to my boyfriend so he can watch over me. I also have movies on it if need be. I keep a bottle of juice by my bed (i find if i have sugar it usually calms me a little) i also have my 'calms spray'. I also suffer from something called endometriosis so im pretty much in constant agony so i always go to bed with a hot water bottle.
I dont ever recall having any nightmares before any of these attacks either.
It's sounds like night terrors . I'm not An expert or anything but maybe keep a nightlight on during the night, and listen to a relaxation tape before bed. Do you have anything that comforts you like a soft toy? There is a thing called self soothing that you might want to check out.
Obviously I am not a doctor so I would advise you to visit your GP but you mind find the above links helpful.
I myself listen to an audiobook at night.
I hope you have a good sleep tonight. Xx
Oh i've never really thought it could be something like that! I do have a teddy i cuddle (im 22 but who cares!) i'll definitely look into the self soothing too.
Ive got my next doctors appt on thursday where i'll mention it. I have a history of anxiety that they know of so hopefully they can help.
I have had anxiety attacks for a long time but recently a few months ago they changed. I started waking up in the middle of the night with my heart pounding. I am sending you hugs, because I know how this feels. I try not to predict it's going to happen and I excercise everyday which activity seems to help. I have no idea why the panic attacks changed. I take medication for these because they are almost unbearable. Just know you are not alone.
I know your pain, you will be alright. There is a free app called stop panic and anxiety self help, by excel at life. Listen to it before you go to bed ( use head phones) and relax Hope you feel better.
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