How to Deal with Anxiety Attacks?

I’ve had anxiety and panic attacks for the pass five years...

Anxiety Question:

I’ve had anxiety and panic attacks for the pass five years.

I’m not sure if I’ve pinpointed the start of it but in 2001 my uncle and great grandmother passed away within two weeks of each other and I never let my emotions out. Then in 2004 my grandmother, who I was very close to, passed away and I cried like there was no stopping.

But since then I’ve had my attacks under control, except for during car rides, mostly on the freeway.

I just want to know if anyone else has this problem and if so how to deal with it?

Anxiety Answer:

Yes, I've had experiences with this. My mom (hers were triggered by the death of her father) and I both get anxiety attacks, and she almost always gets them in the car. She has started using a new technique and it seems to be working. She invites it in; she says, "Ok, if you are going to have a panic attack then make it a good one! I want the tingly hands, the tight chest, the dizzy feelings, the works! C'mon, what can you give me? Is that it?" So far, it seems to be working. Within minutes the feelings start to go away.

When I feel an anxiety attack coming on, I try to focus on something else other than the feelings, like a song on the radio or something. I know how scary they are but if you keep telling yourself that it is just a panic attack and you won't die from this then you might start to calm down. The symptoms can be quite frightening. Good luck!

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Dealing with Anxiety Advice

Don't Postpone Your Happiness

"When it comes to stress and depression, this kind of 'I'll be happy when...' type of thinking can be a real problem. One day, you start to realize that all of the goals you've achieved haven't brought you that much happiness. That's because you didn't appreciate it at the time because you were too busy setting the next 'I'll be happy when ...' goal."

From the book titled "Conquering Stress" by Chris Green