PANIC ATTACKS

It was nearly 30 years ago that I experienced my first panic attack – something that one in ten of us will experience at some point, according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

At that time in my life I was under a lot of emotional stress, what with building work and decorating our new home; leaving my childhood home and the security of my parents; the preparations for our wedding and honeymoon.  Plus I was working full time in a pressurised role.  It all took its toll.

I was sitting down in my boss’s office just about to take shorthand when a wave of panic washed over me.  I felt faint, my heart was racing and my hands were clammy and thought I was going to die.  Then it passed and I began to worry if it would happen again and I’d work myself up into such anxiety, which brought on more attacks!

The day before my wedding, I had to be taken to see a psychotherapist as I didn’t understand what was happening to me!

He explained that these experiences were panic attacks and the overwhelming events of me leaving the security of my parents nest, plus working full time and the prospect of having to run my own home were just too much for me.  Also, add on the excitement and anticipation of the wedding and honeymoon and voila a “panic attack”!

Although very nervous, I managed to cope with the wedding and with that out of the way, enjoyed our honeymoon.  On return I went to the library to learn more about these attacks and how to deal with them.  Although it’s not known why some people suffer, experts believe attacks are the result of a “fight or flight” response when the body is flooded with the stress hormone adrenaline “out of context”.

Adrenaline increases the heart rate and blood pressure.  They can also be a symptom of anxiety, overwhelming feelings of tension, uncertainty and fear. This is where I first realised the importance of correct breathing; meditation/relaxation and an affirmation of “I am safe and this feeling is passing”.

During my time as a therapist I have met many, many clients who have suffered with panic attacks and I can truly emphasise with what they’re experiencing and help them deal with it and prevent them from happening.