panic attacks

[malone1234]

hi, ive been suffering with panic attacks for past couple of months although they have got worse over the past 2 weeks. Ive seen people have asked questions about help on here and they have been advised to call MIND. Could someone tell me what happens when you call them ? Do they put you in touch with people who can help ?

thanks

[nagnag]

You need to see your G.P. ASAP. If they are that bad and you aren't coping by yourself, you may need propanolol.
hope you get better soon.

[alijangra]

Agree totally with nagnag. Propranalol really helps with the physical symptoms such as a racing heart etc so its a lot easier to focus and bring yourself out of the attack. The only side effect I found was they made me a little tired but better that than panic attacks I say!

[Curious_Me]

HI. I found learning to meditate REALLY helpful and working out what triggered the attacks .....I am very against taking medication. Finding someone to talk through why you are having the attacks will help...your GP will be able to point you in the rught direction. Be assured you will be able to learn how to minimise attacks and deal with this. y already addmitting you need to get help with this you are already beginning to gain some control of the situation Good Luck.

[nfn]

MIND is a essentially self help support group. They may be all you need to recognise triggers and how to avoid them. If you need more support they will recommend what nagnag and alijangra suggest (and I would recommend first), speak to your GP. However, if you don't feel you've been taken seriously go to a different one in the practice as unfortunately some GPs are like some other people and think you should just 'pull yourself together'. Good luck, my best friend suffered for years before she finally sought out the help she needed

[Elfin]

You are not alone. Please go and have a look at www.nomorepanic.co.uk and in particular, click on the forum link. There are lots of people there to help and lots of info about how to cope and get better.

You'll be glad you did.

[alijangra]

As a nurse I must stress that medication has its place and mustnt be ruled out. It worked extremely well for me. Propranalol is actually a beta-blocker which slows the heart rate, it is not a sedative and is not addictive. Panic attacks have horrible physical symptoms and if u can address them it makes it easier to cope and get to the root of the problem. They are only ever available on prescription under supervision of a GP. Many of us take medication for other physical symptoms, why not for symptoms caused by panic attacks?

[Dollie]

I think it would be helpful to ask your GP for a referral to a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist. Most NHS areas have one, although there may be a waiting list. They help you to change your thought patterns and beliefs and can really help you turn your life around. Another good therapy is hypnosis - a skilled hypnotherapist can help you enormously with panic attacks and anxiety. Always make sure, however, that any therapist you use (privately, outside of the NHS ) is qualified. Good Luck.