How To Challenge What Ifs And Racing Thoughts

[gordiescotland1]

Hi there I have been invited out tonight by 2 very good friends to their house, I had turned them down twice before because they live 7 miles away. Now I have been invited with a friend who is going and she is driving me there and back. I am starting to get anxious now have been most of the afternoon. I think the thing is what if I have a panic attack at being away from home I cant suddenly ask the lady to drive me home if she is enjoying herself so I am stuck however I am ok at travelling in the dark and I have taken the precaution of the bus times with me and I know where the stop is so if I freak out I know I can get a bus and I am taking diazepam with me just in case. I want to enjoy the evening its nice to be asked out how can i tell the what ifs to shutup?!!

[jomifl]

What are your worries?
The only way to gain confidence in life is to take on things that you find challenging.

[gordiescotland1]

I think its just Im frightened of having a panic attack and not being able to escape. But thats a good point i am going to take it on because the next time I will maybe be a bit more confident

[gordiescotland1]

I read something really good that Mark Twain said most things he worried about never happened I find thats very true.

[Baldric]

/// the thing is what if I have a panic attack at being away from home///

You've got to get a grip of this Gordie, only you can do it, how would you cope with a job if it was still a problem?
Good Luck.

[Mamyalynne]

Yes, take the opportunity and challenge those 'what ifs' and remember - panic attacks are quire common so if you do feel a wobble coming on , mention it to company.

They won't laugh and you will feel easier.

Enjoy your evening.

[jomifl]

Gordie, the Mark Twain quote is very true, There have been things that I have put off for all sorts of reasons until they are unavoidable. When The unavoidable happened it was gone without a trace..

[ladyalex]

What would really happen if you had a panic attack and could not escape from the house you are going to be in?
What really happens when you have a panic attack?

I could give you my guesses as to the answer to these questions, but you should try to think them through.

[Retrochic]

Have you ever been offered cognitive therapy therapy.

A) if you are distressed any friend would drive you home regardless -end of.
B) Be comforted you have friends who understand your problems and are still asking you to their house .
C0)make it quite clear you may become 'ill' and if so can they call you a Taxi (if friend has been drinking and can't take you home.