Panic Attacks

[Perko]

Originally Posted by Hell Cat

Panic attacks/anxiety.... My daily life.

I got a referral from the gp to see a specialist, I'm too soft to go though.

Agree with the rest of the guys here, go. It's not a matter of being soft or weak. You have an issue that is hampering your ability to get through the day and enjoy life. You need to talk to somebody about it even as a bare minimum.

I was a Beyond Blue facilitator for a while a number of years ago. Ironically I ignored the signs myself and had a breakdown last year. Just talking to people has made a huge difference and with some timely medication I am dealing with it. It is surprising the amount of people who go through the same scenario. The good thing thing also is they are all generally available for a chat. Happy for you to send me a PM at any time.

[Falcman0o7]

Originally Posted by Resurrection

Anybody use paroxetine/paxtine? I do. Curious to hear what side affects people have noticed.

I do mate. Na, but if i stop i lose it! been on em since 97

[buggerlugs]

I don't think it matters what meds your on, re panic or anxiety, if you suddenly stop taking them, the effects to the brain is not good.............

[Mallard]

Had a major depression after my son was born (16 years ago). Just felt everything was spiraling out of control. Slightest thing would cause a panic attack. My wife at the time, forced me to go see someone. Best thing I ever did. Took a couple of years to get my head right and learn to identify the signs within myself and how to deal with them.

Panic attacks can still hit me from time to time; jitters, racing pulse, can't think straight. Have to go back to my breathing exercises and calming techniques. Read a good book a while ago called "Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway".

It's really important to talk to the right counselor to help you develop techniques that work for you. I went through 5 or 6 until I found someone I was comfortable with.

[cedric]

Originally Posted by Resurrection

Anybody use paroxetine/paxtine? I do. Curious to hear what side affects people have noticed.

i take 10mg a day and no real side effects to talk of ,bit tired maybe. but i started on 40mg per day and was always very tired and was very hard to 'finish the job' in bed . i also put on about 20kg. have suffered from panic attacks since i was 18, now 38 but really bad when my son was born 5 years ago. that is when i went on to paroxetine. my biggest advice to anyone is to aviod CAFFINE it took me a long time to realise but it really set me off

[BA-XT]

Originally Posted by buggerlugs

I don't think it matters what meds your on, re panic or anxiety, if you suddenly stop taking them, the effects to the brain is not good.............

Cipramil is terrible to come off, if not impossible. I've been on them since 2001 and will be on them for life. I've tried to come off them, but I can't. Read countless forums and the side effects are horrid. If I miss more than 2 days at the moment I fall in a heap.

[tweeked]

My other half had issues 3-4 years ago. She hated the medication. She did an course in Neuro Linguistics and it worked for her so well she continued studying and now is a certified trainer in it. Not the mainstream solution but it worked for her.

[FreddyDUZ747]

Originally Posted by cedric

i take 10mg a day and no real side effects to talk of ,bit tired maybe. but i started on 40mg per day and was always very tired and was very hard to 'finish the job' in bed . i also put on about 20kg. have suffered from panic attacks since i was 18, now 38 but really bad when my son was born 5 years ago. that is when i went on to paroxetine. my biggest advice to anyone is to aviod CAFFINE it took me a long time to realise but it really set me off

Interesting,Im on 40mg a day(two tablets of Aaropax)and drink a bit of coffe each day

Do you find you get a dry mouth at all?

Im having a little battle atm to be honest,my mixer shaft repair has turned into security code error icc,no fuel pump or engine crank

Breath......Breath......

[Falcman0o7]

How are you all?

[Road_Warrior]

Not too bad, havent had the need to take my meds since before Christmas, managed to get a secondment since about January until say September and maybe something else after that, so a change is as good as a holiday as they say

[Mickxr8]

Originally Posted by Falcman0o7

How are you all?

My doc has started shifting me from `oxazepam` to `paxtine` wow thats some serious stuff, 2 days and I`ve stopped till I can find a week to be `in my own spot` till it all kicks in , I`m finding resolving old issues and dealing with em 1 by 1 is helping .

If I could just make one point,,,.

For newbies on this thread , if you think you have an issue the sooner you see a doc the better, even if you just just get referred somewhere else .

Don`t let it drag out 10 yrs like I did ....

[Resurrection]

This month is 5 years since I started using paroxetine/paxtine. And I am much better today than in 2007. I have not had a panic attack for a long time. My toilet habits are much more regular.

I have been taking half medication for several months (break the 20mg tablet in half) and can miss a couple of days without any negative effects. As with some other posters I have noticed a few side affects - tiredness, weight increase and difficulty reaching a happy ending when with the little lady. But other than that all good.

So I have no regrets about getting on SSRI medication as the alternative was to do nothing which probably would have seen me in the looney bin by now. There is much written about withdrawal problems when using SSRI medication. From my experience it is something which needs to be done VERY slowly.

[seedywagon]

Hi,
Over the last two weeks I've developed an anxiety disorder, or it has at least come to the surface.
I had quite a few panic attacks, which landed me in hospital, and were quite scary. It has now morphed into consistent anxiety, very debillitating, it's hard to leave the couch, I'm really unable to function.
I believe it was triggered by a family member's recent death, and I've been talking it through with a counsellor, which has been helpful.
A GP has put me on a daily dose of Zoloft 50mg as well as Valium, which I probably won't be taking again after my enormous drugged up pseudo sleep it left me with, today was my first day on medication. I've noticed a little nausea, and a general 'yuck' feeling. My sisters suffer from the same thing, and it definitely runs through in my family.
I'm confident that this issue can be fixed, and reading this gives me great hope.

I'm interested in this lexapro SSRI pill after hearing so many good things about it, I will ask my psychiatrist when I meet him, but Zoloft seems to work well for my little sister, who is on a high dose.

[Resurrection]

I had a bad experience this week. Went to the Buchan caves in Gippsland and as soon as I went in I realised I was no good. But that is only a minor setback as all is well again. Therefore the message to those who are in the same position as I; don't let a setback derail your recovery.

[tapeworm]

This thread is good. I'm a bit like a lot of you & it's amazing how similar experiences can be. I've had severe anxiety & panic attacks for around 10years (it's my life) only just seen a psychologist for the 1st time..I've been put on Swiss mood (lol) & am going to put me through various exercises over the next few weeks...I get the feeling she thinks I can be controlled by pulling a few Km's on a treadmill a few times a week & eating well (both which I already do) & it's much more serious than that- my brain isn't wired right... I like the motto 'I can handle it' it's a slight help when panic starts to rise.

[TUF_302]

I'm currently going through a bad depression,havent worked in 5 weeks, been going to the doctor at least once a week to talk and discuss what actions to take to make life easier on me, hopefully will start to fill better soon, sick of sitting around the house feeling bad for myself

[Miss_XR6]

Wasnt going to post but thought I will

Had a rough couple of years after being physically/emontionally abused by an ex before I built up the courage to leave him went into a really bad depression didnt eat or sleep and lost alot of friends cause of my state for a good year and then got my life back on track and been happy ever since
all was good until i saw him at a car show earlier in the year and ever since then been scared for my life again every noise i hear in the middle of the night i have a panick attack

[seedywagon]

After about 10 days on Zoloft my panic attacks have stopped, and I'm able to get out of the house and function somewhat, but I'm still not 'right' in the head.
I have episodes of depersonalization, where I become detached from my own behavior, and I feel very robot-like. I'm thinking this may settle down once the meds have really kicked-in (it hasn't really been long enough)
I'm also seeing a qualified psychiatrist weekly now, and I'm about to begin cognitive behavior therapy, which I'm told helps the most.

Such a disruption on life, but I'm glad to know this is a common problem I guess..

[BLUEYBA]

Originally Posted by seedywagon

After about 10 days on Zoloft my panic attacks have stopped, and I'm able to get out of the house and function somewhat, but I'm still not 'right' in the head.
I have episodes of depersonalization, where I become detached from my own behavior, and I feel very robot-like. I'm thinking this may settle down once the meds have really kicked-in (it hasn't really been long enough)
I'm also seeing a qualified psychiatrist weekly now, and I'm about to begin cognitive behavior therapy, which I'm told helps the most.

Such a disruption on life, but I'm glad to know this is a common problem I guess..

Stick with, feel the same way sometimes. You might find that the doctor may have to increase/decrease to find the exact dose that suits you. The start can be a little difficult because of this but once you find the right level and with the phychiatrist helping you things will come together. Just make sure you keep busy by exercising, meeting friends/family otherwise the can take control until you learn the techniques of the therapy.

[BLUEYBA]

Originally Posted by Miss_XR6

Wasnt going to post but thought I will

Had a rough couple of years after being physically/emontionally abused by an ex before I built up the courage to leave him went into a really bad depression didnt eat or sleep and lost alot of friends cause of my state for a good year and then got my life back on track and been happy ever since
all was good until i saw him at a car show earlier in the year and ever since then been scared for my life again every noise i hear in the middle of the night i have a panick attack

I can't say I know how you feel when it come to you ex and what you went through. But all I can say is to stay strong and keep reminding yourself how much courage it took for you were to get out of the situation you were in and that you're not going back there. If you live alone maybe you could ask a close friend to stay with you for abit of support

[hawkgirl]

my brother is 50 & has only just been diagnosed bi polar, something I have always suspected anyway.

He has never been a "crowd" person, but his medication has given him panic attacks when he is somewhere with a lot of people, this is making him agrophobic to some extent as well.

We talk, and I try to be as understanding as I can, but I feel so bad for him. He gets annoyed because he knows its all in his head & it shouldnt control him.

[bingoTE50]

Originally Posted by Miss_XR6

Wasnt going to post but thought I will

Had a rough couple of years after being physically/emontionally abused by an ex before I built up the courage to leave him went into a really bad depression didnt eat or sleep and lost alot of friends cause of my state for a good year and then got my life back on track and been happy ever since
all was good until i saw him at a car show earlier in the year and ever since then been scared for my life again every noise i hear in the middle of the night i have a panick attack

Did he threaten you ? If so you need to talk to the Police . Sometimes a short talk to them and maybe a visit by them to your ex may sort it .
If he is inclined to do anything towards you now,you must talk to them.
Do not fear retribution. Most wife bashers are pea hearts . You must look out for yourself FIRST.

[bingoTE50]

Originally Posted by TUF_302

I'm currently going through a bad depression,havent worked in 5 weeks, been going to the doctor at least once a week to talk and discuss what actions to take to make life easier on me, hopefully will start to fill better soon, sick of sitting around the house feeling bad for myself

Mate don't know being off work or out of work is your cause. I have just been off for eight weeks , third redundancy in five years .
If you are out of work , get a second opinion on your resume before you present it. Try recruiters other than government allied ones . Apply ,apply apply .Think of people you were associated in your line of work and network them . Leverage off people on this forum.

On another tangent I know of a guy who's depression is linked to the climate. If it is cold ,he struggles . Medication seems to help.

[Miss_XR6]

Originally Posted by bingoTE50

Did he threaten you ? If so you need to talk to the Police . Sometimes a short talk to them and maybe a visit by them to your ex may sort it .
If he is inclined to do anything towards you now,you must talk to them.
Do not fear retribution. Most wife bashers are pea hearts . You must look out for yourself FIRST.

It was more than threaten me police involved hospital records of mine went to court and he got charged but it was his first offence so got no time ect but had a AVO for my protection

I see him at the odd car show like summernats ect but he stays well clear of me just death stares

Just found out though he did the exact same to his last 2 gf's one took him to court so now hopefully he gets thrown in jail and the key thrown away

[seedywagon]

Originally Posted by BLUEYBA

Stick with, feel the same way sometimes. You might find that the doctor may have to increase/decrease to find the exact dose that suits you. The start can be a little difficult because of this but once you find the right level and with the phychiatrist helping you things will come together. Just make sure you keep busy by exercising, meeting friends/family otherwise the can take control until you learn the techniques of the therapy.

Thanks, I can't wait to be past this 'zombie' stage.
This SSRI medication is a rollercoaster!

[BLUEYBA]

Originally Posted by seedywagon

Thanks, I can't wait to be past this 'zombie' stage.
This SSRI medication is a rollercoaster!

Yeah it can be a rollercoaster. Some of the ups and downs I've had wow. Just remember that the medication is to help you gain control again and so then you can work on the issues. Otherwise we would either never get control or it would take years to get control and at the same time affect our personal lives negatively

[BLUEYBA]

Originally Posted by Miss_XR6

It was more than threaten me police involved hospital records of mine went to court and he got charged but it was his first offence so got no time ect but had a AVO for my protection

I see him at the odd car show like summernats ect but he stays well clear of me just death stares

Just found out though he did the exact same to his last 2 gf's one took him to court so now hopefully he gets thrown in jail and the key thrown away

If he is having that big an effect that its still affecting your life then I would agree that you need to speak with the police. you don't want to take any chances with a person like this.

[Kable72]

deleted

[Kable72]

this may be the wrong thread for this and I tried to edit my old post but it wouldn't let me.


Just a question, how did you all come to terms with your emotional issues? I have had anxiety and depression (at least I think so) since I was around 14 years old. I never wanted to get help because, well, I didn't want to admit that there was a problem. Throughout my school years, I was detatched from everything. Rarely participated in social events with the few friends that I had. Failed school because I had no motivation. Stopped playing Guitar for the same reason.

6 years on, after several people cutting me so deep it gets harder to recover everytime. I'm ready to admit that I have a problem and am going to seek help. How do you tell friends? Family? Did you find that they were supportive or shrugged you off as a weakling? Did it help with counselling or was medication enough on it's own.

I'm just sick and tired of feeling like I have to seperate myself from everyone for fear that they will not understand. Does anyone understand the personal struggles you face from within everyday?

Some days, it just gets too much. Just lose all composure. No matter if it's in a crowded room or the solitary of my bedroom. I feel so embarrassed because everyone stares and you have no explanation as to why you're losing it.

EDIT: Another question, Do you have to tell your workplace? Is it ideal to do so?

[BLUEYBA]

Originally Posted by Kable72

this may be the wrong thread for this and I tried to edit my old post but it wouldn't let me.


Just a question, how did you all come to terms with your emotional issues? I have had anxiety and depression (at least I think so) since I was around 14 years old. I never wanted to get help because, well, I didn't want to admit that there was a problem. Throughout my school years, I was detatched from everything. Rarely participated in social events with the few friends that I had. Failed school because I had no motivation. Stopped playing Guitar for the same reason.

6 years on, after several people cutting me so deep it gets harder to recover everytime. I'm ready to admit that I have a problem and am going to seek help. How do you tell friends? Family? Did you find that they were supportive or shrugged you off as a weakling? Did it help with counselling or was medication enough on it's own.

I'm just sick and tired of feeling like I have to seperate myself from everyone for fear that they will not understand. Does anyone understand the personal struggles you face from within everyday?

Some days, it just gets too much. Just lose all composure. No matter if it's in a crowded room or the solitary of my bedroom. I feel so embarrassed because everyone stares and you have no explanation as to why you're losing it.

EDIT: Another question, Do you have to tell your workplace? Is it ideal to do so?

Hey

It took me a fair while to admit that I had an illness. I always kept telling myself it was everyone else. I think from the time I admitted or realised I had an issue was they day things improved. Don't get me wrong there have been times things have gone backwards but they have improved.
Depending on how you get on with your family on a whole its easier to tell them. Even though they may not understand the illness they will see that there is something not quite right with you and will support you. With friends its a little different, I've only told people who i could trust and who would listen. Choosing what friends to tell is difficult and is something you will need to decide on a friend by friend basis.
Remember this is about you feeling better so surround yourself with people who will help, understand and support. Maybe limit your time with those who don't.
You don't need to tell work as its between you and your doctor. I haven't told my work tho some work mates know about it and are understanding. But again its up to you who you do or don't tell.