Hi all! I seem to be improving somewhat lately, and wanted to share some of the things that are helping a little.
1. Recognizing my triggers. This is obvious for some of us, but for some it's not, because panic attacks often come from absolutely nowhere. I know mine is health anxiety and fear of dying. Whenever I feel different or weird, a panic attack is almost sure to follow. Sometimes I can't avoid my triggers, but I'm trying to practice thinking about them differently.
2. Don't let my mind be idle. When I am not occupied with something, my brain sometimes goes haywire thinking of all sorts of awful possibilities. I found a hobby in making sewing art, and it keeps me busy so I don't focus on every little feeling in my body or worry about kicking the bucket. When I feel anxiety creeping in, I do something to distract my mind, even if it's in the middle of the night. This forum has been wonderful for that.
3. Stay in the moment. This has been the most difficult for me. I'm trying so hard to live in the present moment and not even think one minute into the future. I'm a constant worrier, and it has robbed me of way too many moments in my life.
4. Don't fight panic attacks. Try and ride it out. I have to continuously remind myself that I'm not dying, and that it will pass. This is a tough one too, but if you can try and find a distraction and just let it run its course, it will pass eventually.
5. Cutting back on things that cause my nervous system to become inflamed. I quit caffeine a year and a half ago and it made an enormous difference--and I only previously drank one cup of coffee a day. Caffeine is like poison for anxiety. Also, while I'm not quite a teetotaler, I drink alcohol very, very rarely. I'm working on cutting way back on fast food too. Clean living (healthy diet and exercise) will decrease inflammation of the nervous system, which should stave off anxiety--this came straight from my therapist today.
6. Exercise. A daily walk that turned into running got rid of my anxiety for over a year. I stopped because it got too hot, and a couple of traumatic events later, it returned. I plan to resume walking with a friend starting tomorrow.
7. Live a little! I have to remember that I am still human and life shouldn't be a prison. I refuse to be a slave to this anxiety beast. I'm focusing on spending time with friends, doing fun things, and making sure to use moderation if I decide to indulge.
8. Find support. For me, this is joining a new faith community. I don't have a super ton of friends, but I'm excited about the idea of trying this new venture. Again, it's something that will occupy my mind and my time and hopefully give me a positive boost and sense of purpose.
9. Positive affirmations. I wrote down a list of things I like about myself or that bring me joy. I read them daily, and sometimes say them out loud. I must give credit to my therapist again for giving me a list of affirmations as well. CBT is having a tremendous, wonderful impact on my life. Sometimes all we need at the moment is to know that someone is listening and cares--this forum is great for that also. Sometimes we need a little more help and reassurance that we're going to be ok. What works for some, doesn't necessarily work for others, and we should be cognizant of that. At the end of the day, we have to remember that there is always hope. I want to say thank you to everyone who has taken the time to respond and share experiences with me. This is a fantastic community, and I'm happy I found it.
Sharing some thoughts
in my first relationship, need some advice 
This will be the Magic Bullet for some of you
