Anxiety Problems, Does Anyone Else Suffer from These?

First, let me say anxiety sucks. I wouldn't wish it on anyone. My mother, brothers, aunts, cousins all suffer from anxiety. So, even though I am a laid back person, genetically I was doomed. I had my first anxiety attack after my daughter was born. I think it was something about the pregnancy hormones that started it. To make a long story short, I have had anxiety on and off for about 9 years. However, I haven't had any major problems in almost two years. Drugs don't work for me either, but I do keep a bottle of "Xanax" in my cabinet. So, instead of being on something all the time, I might take just one pill or even a half a pill when I start to get really anxious. This stops things in its tracks and helps me calm down. Just knowing that I have a way to calm down soothes me. The second part of this that has kept me calm and centered is really working on meditation, and reading "A New Earth" by Eckhart Tolle. You might have heard about it on Oprah. I read the book and also did the "class" on Oprah's website. I highly recommend both. The thing about this book was that it help me realize to separate the physical sensation of anxiety and the though process behind it. Because as you probably know, once the sensation hits it races from my body to my thoughts and I get even more upset and it just a vicious cycle. The thoughts fuel the anxiety. This book helped me separate the thought from the sensation. I feel like I finally have control over this. Hope this helps! Take care.

I have bad anxiety attacks...or I used to! I now take illuminex from Melaleuca. It is an herbal that has a 90% absorbtion rate compared to others that only absorb at a 30-40% rate. This stuff really works and has helped so many people get off of their prescription drugs. It is also really affordable.
Taffy Blake
www.livetotalwellness.com/BeAtHome

Lora,

I myself just completed Menopause and now have a whole differant physical nervious system. I too refuse to take the anit-depressants. A nutritionalist was my life saver along with reserch. It can be controled and lived with. Hang in there and don't give into just drugging up, it's only a mask. Honestly I do keep the drugs around but only for special occasions like...plane rides.

I have anxiety also. I have been on Paxil long ago after loosing my first born son. It was good for a while, but awful to get off of.
I practice Yoga whenever I can. It really teaches you ways to calm yourself down. Otherwise just remember that there are lots of us out there that feel the same way. My main problem is always feeling like something will happen to my children. This is a normal thing for most parents, but I beleive mine is amplified by the fact that I did loose a child already. I just have to keep reminding myself how much time I waste worrying when I should be just enjoying them. It is a hard thing to do, but I am getting better.
I wish you luck.

D.

Check your diet. Sugar itself can cause anxiety attacks right after the sugar high has passed. (This happens to me). Also, food allergies can cause them as well. Is there something you are eating once a month?

I used to have anxiety attacks for no apparent reason, then realized later that dairy was causing a LOT of mine.

I can't take anti-depressants either. There was one anxiety medication I was able to take many years ago. But the food allergies were actually causing depression, mood swings, itching, exhaustion AND anxiety attacks. For everyone the symptoms can be different.

Another thing to consider is, is there a time of the month - like when the rent's due, or something else is going on in your life, where you maybe have post traumatic stress? Maybe a traumatic event happened during that time in the past? If so, make a point of dealing with this trigger. Allow yourself to feel the feelings until they are no longer an issue. (I know this is hard - I've done it myself).

Medications often give me terrible side effects. That's why I go to a naturopath. Naturopathic medicine and/or acupuncture can help these as well. Acupuncture, believe it or not can be incredibly relaxing. I know a great Chinese doctor in Northgate.

Last, but most importantly of all, my prayer life really helped me get a handle on both depression and anxiety attacks. Through prayer I was able to overcome Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Let go, and Let God. In all unforeseen events, remember that everything is under God's care and cast all of your cares on Him. The more you get centered spiritually and are able to calm down and relax, the better. I don't know if you believe in Christ - but there is something about these icons of Christ, that really speak to me and calm me down. You can try this link http://www.goarch.org/en/resources/clipart/icondetail.asp... or this one http://www.uncutmountainsupply.com/proddetail.asp?prod=11S21. This one is of the Virgin Mary with Christ: http://www.uncutmountainsupply.com/proddetail.asp?prod=12G09
You can copy and print them out for yourself if you want.

The Orthodox Christian Church teaches that these things are blessings, because the blessings we receive when we really turn to God totally outweigh the misery we were in. I can tell you from personal experience that that is true.

God bless you in your life's journey, have mercy on you and keep you by His grace.

I wouldn't have enough information from what you have written to dare suggest what "might" be going on with you. That said, have you considered consulting a naturopath? If you are hoping to avoid using a medication, this could be an option to check out. Yes, the initial consultation is a bit expensive, (or you can check out your local natural medicine school. Portland has a naturopathic college, which can be more affordable) but treat it as an investment in yourself. Living the way you want to live is important, and if you are willing to try herbs, naturopathy may really help.

I had some more-than-occasional acute anxiety; this was causing me an incredible amount of stomach pain, which I thought was unrelated. I tried some homeopathic remedies on my own, but to little relief. I then found a school of natural medicine in my area and worked with them. They treated the anxiety (and not the stomach pain) and the symptoms disappeared that day. By the way, for me the only side effect was feeling relaxed, sleeping better, and enjoying life more. :)

Please do consult a pro before trying to treat oneself with herbs. It can save you a lot of time and money.

Best wishes!

My anxiety ended up being related to hormonal fluctuations and I have found that bio-identical progesterone cream has really helped. I would get your hormone levels checked and check your thyroid functions too. Hang in there because I know it sucks bad but I'm sure it can change. Much love & peace to you.

About 18 years ago I was nearly undone by panic attacks. Frequent and fierce, beginning right after my beloved grandmother died. I still get them sometimes, but I don't fear them anymore, and they have much less impact now.

Two things help me. The first is staying away from all sorts of air pollution. I can still get pretty intense attacks if I'm exposed to perfume/cologne, air fresheners, fabric softeners, and most household cleaning products (those "harmless" products are loaded with toxic ingredients). I also avoid auto exhaust as much as possible. And cigarette smoke.

The second is finding time often to get centered. This can be prayer, meditation, a long, calm walk, working in the garden, whatever gives me the space to notice and let go of disturbing thoughts and worries. It especially helps me to realize that Something Greater than me is in control, and therefore everything is really okay, always. (Many folks consider that Something to be God; I have learned that it goes by many other names as well).

Since I don't really control anything, I have gradually learned to let go of the illusion of control. Though that might sound scary from where you are, I have found that it's actually incredibly freeing and light.

I find it helps to find my way into this calm space regularly, so that I'm familiar with the "map" when I need it. (My map gradually changes as my life experiences change). It also helps me notice and trust that I am NOT dying, even though my body seems to believe it is.

My best to you. This can be a gift in the long run. I hope you find that you can change your life for the better, using these symptoms as an guide.

L. - You are not alone. Many do not realize these are very serious and one feels as if they are going to have a heart attack and die. A friend had one and had to pull over her car and dial 911 with her grandson in the car.
They are real and serious and you need to take them seriously.
Educate yourself, talk to your doctor, friends, family and pastor if you have one.
Try to journal and identify triggers. It can be PMS, hormones, stress, PTSD, toxins, many things trigger the anxiety.
My favorite helpers are prayer, exercise, music and our Savior Jesus Christ.
Philippians 4:6 Don't worry about anything, instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. If you do this you will experience God's peace which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
This works for me. Worrying is like praying for what you don't want. Trust me I am a world class worrier. Someone once told me "I know worrying works, because nothing I worry about has ever happened."
Aromatherapy, lavender lotion, reading, and education are the things I have tried and still use.
One of my devotions for this week reads:
My children that Peace does truly pass all understanding. That Peace no man taketh from you. No man has the power to disturb that Peace but you yourselves can let the world and its worries and distractions in.
There is more, email me if you need to.
Take good care of yourself and good luck.
Blessings on your day,
L.

A good therapist. A great one if you can find them.

As opposed to a psychiatrist, who is a medical doctor that specializes in mental health & medications, a good therapist (psychologist, social worker, etc.) can help you on a one to one basis through both counseling and referring you to get the right kinds of medical tests through your doctor. Sometimes a psychiatrist can ALSO be a therapist, but it's pretty rare.

There are literally over a hundred ways I can think of that are used successfully to control panic attacks. I have my own methods that work pretty well for me...but my solutions probably won't be yours. A GOOD therapist will not only help you find the ones that work for you, & give you the tools to use and find more, but will also seek to help you identify triggers & causes.

Be prepared to "interview" several counselors. All therapists are different, not only in their education & favorite methods, but also because they're people, too. Psychology is an incredibly diverse field...so the first person you see may not be "the one". As long as you know that, you'll be fine. You're looking for someone you can trust, with great ideas, and who helps you find your OWN path. If something doesn't click or feel right, move on. They're TRAINED to deal with hurt feelings, and they're a professional offering a service...so never be afraid of hurting someone's feelings by moving on.

Hang in there,
~Z.

Anxiety is crippling--you have my sympathies.

In reference to meds, antidepressants are *not* good treatments for anxiety, and can make it worse. If you consider going back on any meds to help control it (which I think is a good idea if the symptoms are unbearable and not responding to natural remedies), be sure you are getting the correct medicine, and you would likely have better results. Especially if the attacks are intermittent, you could have a "panic button" kind of medicine that you would only take as needed (like Ativan), which would be much easier on your system than a systemic regimen.

With that, I've found the best non-medicinal solution for me was regular vigorous exercise as a preventative measure. Nothing has ever really helped me end an attack once it starts, but the more exercise I get, the fewer attacks.

Good luck!

Hi Lora,
I too have a bad history of anxiety. It seems to be hereditary because my entire family suffers from panic attacks. Each of us has handled it in our own way. It is something that I would highly recommend treating even if you could use a vitamin supplement. I noticed that someone mentioned Melaleuca. I would highly recommend their products. It has worked for my mother. Definitelty do something to treat it because your quality of life will improve greatly. Personally I had to take perscription meds to help me , but I know its not for everyone. I hope you are able to get some relief!
Much Love,
A.

L.-

I went thru a terrible time of anxiety attacks about a year ago. They went on for several months and I felt determined not to use any meds. Meds couldn't help me adress my problems. I talked to my pastor and got my hands on a couple of books to walk me thru my anxiety/depression and explain some good techniques for dealing with them.

One good way I found to deal with my anxiety was to suck on an icecube when the anxiety hit. It would "shock" my system and give me something to focus on. I also found meditation (or relaxation with a candle and some soft music) to be very helpful for my late-night panic attacks. It's really just a matter of getting some ideas and finding what works for you. A positive attitude has helped me more than anything, though.

Staying positive and knowing yourself are key. Find your comfort zone and go with it. Keep looking until you find what works for you.

Good luck!
-B. M.-

Currently it is being found on many fronts in the medical and psychiatric community that facing our fears is the best, the most effective and the longest lasting way to treat anxiety.

I might suggest that you explore finding someone, a therapist or doctor, who follows this line of thought (I think it might be called immersion therapy - you could probably research it on line). It's said that monsters can only live in the dark and perhaps your anxiety would be eradicated if you were to face whatever fears, conscious fears or subconscious fears, you have. Our fear of a thing, situation or event typically is much worse than the actual thing, situation or event but we can never figure that out as long as we allow ourselves to be ruled by our fear. I know for myself, because I used to have a great deal of anxiety which kept me from doing a lot of things, that when I started to realize my own personal strength and started to recognize that no matter what happened I could handle it that was when I started experiencing less and less anxiety about things. Today I am anxiety free even in the most stressful of situations because I understand that no matter what comes I will deal with it.

Good luck to you and I strongly encourage you to do something about this. You will so happy that you did. I believe that if you hook up with the right person who can help you that you won't have any need for medication and you will be able to permanently cure yourself of anxiety attacks.

Regards,
C.

Prozac helped me *a lot*. Beta blockers may also help.

Hi L., you may want to look into herbal supplements. The company I consult for has a great drink called Ionix Supreme that helps harmonize the body, balance your moods and boost your immune system. Here is a link to my Isagenix website specifically about Ionix: http://wendyfitzgerald.isagenix.com/us/en/ionixsupreme.dhtml
You can also learn more at www.allinonebottle.net
Let me know if you have any questions.

I had bad anxiety attacks when I was going through a divorce from an emotionally abusive husband. I was taking antidepressants at the time, but they didn't stop the attacks. I had them at least once/week. The best thing that worked for me (because I never knew when or where I was going to have one and was often an hour from home) was to have a friend that I trusted that I could call the second I felt one coming on. I would talk with her, she would just listen or offer comfort or whatever I needed to get me through it to a point where I could see straight, not feel like I was going to throw up, breathe, etc. Often it took over an hour, but knowing that I wasn't going through it alone really helped a lot. Even if we were both just silent on the phone while I cried it out. One of the hardest parts for me was wondering if I had one an hour from home, how I would ever make it home in one piece, which in turn made the attack even worse. I wouldn't have made it without someone on the other end of the line...even if they weren't right there with me. BTW, since then I stopped taking anti-depressants and I have stopped havign the attacks. I know that doesn't happen for everyone, but it might help to know? Good luck.

It sounds like you are having PMS. How old you are? Does it happens right before your period? If it so, you don't need antidepressants to control it. There are quite few natural things you can use (my favorite is a cream) that will help level your estrogen production. Plus some fitness and healthy eating can regulate all that. If you can't afford fitness membership, just get out side and run, run, run. Let me know if you need more info. Please, don't go for the happy pills. If you do your homework, the facts are scary. Good luck!

I'm so sorry that you are going through this too. My sister and I have both been going through this for a few years and we have a great support system in each other. We are both on the same meds and like you HATE the side effects. We have found that what works for us is a good support system and a journal to identify triggers. Whenever one of us is having an attack we call the other one to "talk me through it". We have games we play like the supporter asking the one with the attack questions like the ingredients to a favorite recipe or the theme song to favorite shows from childhood. It really helps if you can just redirect your mind to something else. Honestly, I know it sounds silly, but it really works. Another family member who has occasional attacks will chant "I will not fear, the Lord is near" over and over again until she can sing it. I hope this helps, I know that everyone's triggers are different and what works for some might not work for everyone, but what you really do need is a good support system. Anxiety and depression are serious medical conditions that some people don't always take seriously enough. When I came to terms with my anxiety and decided not to be ashamed to talk about it, I found that there are alot of people out there suffering just like us. Medication works for some, but I found that most people I know try to find other ways to deal with it. Good luck

I suffer from anxiety attacks and panic attacks, and what my doctor has told me to do is to breath thru them. I know how bad they suck cause mine tend to happen when I am driving a vehicle and it really scares me.... My suggestion is to get involved with groups that deal with them. Good luck

I have anxiety attacks sometimes, some worse than others. I have found after analizing my day that I'm usually also having pms and/or had much more caffeine than usual. Maybe you could also analize your day and figure out what might be a common link behind your attacks. Then maybe you can make adjustments to avoid the attacks etc...I also went to a great PHD/Herbalist who suggested some natural dietary supplements, that really got results. I know all anxiety is not the same, so I hope this might help you in some way.

I have also been in your shoes. It is very unnerving to have an anxiety attack, and mine, like yours were infrequent (once a month or twice a month). The first time it happened I actually went to the ER because it was late at night (before bedtime and I had no idea what the heck was going on!). Of course the doc explained it to me after examination and gave me a prescription for Zanax. Sure, that can help take the edge off if you need to get to sleep, but I am against medicating (esp. with drugs that are so addictive). So, here was what I did and they went away. Like the mom(s) that said to analyze your day, I would definitely second that. Here is what else:
* Eliminate or significantly reduce caffeine, esp later in day - I drink 1/2 decaf coffee and never after lunchtime. No sodas, and I limit excess chocolate and reduce sugar. Also, watch out for some herbal teas - make sure you know what you are drinking. For example, any tea or food with ginger winds me up.
* VERY IMPORTANT - get more sleep and if you can, rest(nap/read) during the day. You need to let your body relax each day and not always be on the go. This was my major issue - I just never let up. And it was when I was working too much and not resting that they really came about.
* Boost your immune system. Lots of vitamin c and beneficial foods/veggies.
* Make it a mental control game. You allow it to escalate through your reactions as it starts to come on. You know it's starting (your heart races, etc), so sit down and breathe it away. Big deep breaths, push it out mentally, tell yourself you know what is happening, it's nothing to worry about and that you can make it subside. I used to count it down - 10 to 0 with calming deep breaths (yoga style). I know it sounds touchy-feely, and I am not usually that kind of gal. But it really worked for me. Strong mind, will it away.

I hope that helps!!! Good luck.
*

Lora,

I have suffered with anxiety attacks for the last 5 years. Like you I tried all of the anti-depressents, at one point had to wean myself off of paxil. The last few years I have been able to talk myself through these episodes, I explain to my brain, that I am in control, that this shall pass, and I will be back to my normal self. I find a quiet place and slowly calm myself down. I am fortunate that I am normally home when these happen, but I have found myself going to the restroom at work, into anywhere it is quiet and just closing my eyes and talking myself through the attack. It works, it doesn't seem that the attacks are as frequent or that they last as long. If you can find a CD that plays water, running water, rain, chimes, any of these will help you to calm yourself and in no time you will be in control of the anxiety attacks, instead of them controlling you. Always remember that they will pass. Good Luck

Hi Lora! Not to worry tooo very much... what you're going through is pretty common in us more mature women. It's hormones acting nuts, and there IS something you can do about it. Be sure you are watching your diet (no caffeine, cut the sugar), exercise every day (you won't feel like it at first, just MAKE yourself get out and walk!), take a good natural vitamin for women, and I found a product called LUMINEX that keeps me (I'm 53) on an even keel emotionally. It helps you to get that extra deep sleep you need at night, too, which really helps the attitude.
My girlfriend, Sarah, helped me, and she knows where to get the Luminex for you.
Her # is ###-###-####
Hope this helps. Don't get discouraged. Help is on out there.
:>) J.

Lora,

I am so surprised in all of your responses no one has recommended Rescue Remedy by Bach Essences. I have been plagued by anxiety problems at various times in my life and this has worked so effectively at calming me down so immediately. It's essentially a group of flower essences that are suspended in an alcohol tincture. You can purchase it at any of the local natural food stores, ie. whole foods, wild oats, new seasons, etc.

I highly, highly recommend you try it. I've never heard of it not working for anyone else I've talked to about it.

Warmest wishes,

M.

L., without knowing you and your life style I will take a stab at this from a nutritional point of view.There is probably so much going on with you right now but nutrition is a good place to start.

Try taking organic trace minerals in liquid form along with the supplements zinc and sulphur. A good multivitamin is also essential. All minerals need to be taken in the ORGANIC form. Take as directed. Eat more onions, garlic and cabbage. Yes, they cause gas, so eat in small, cooked amounts. Stay away from all sugars for awhile. Try taking probiotics too. This will help, perhaps in a month. You might feel a bit worse at first. Good luck. Chris RN and fellow sufferer.

I feel for you, as many family members of mine also have anxiety attacks. Knowing the triggers is huge, but also seeking counselling or spiritual guidance if needed for those triggers. A vitamin supplement that is great for nerves I take is called Nutracalm (from naturessunshine.org). It is a vitamin B complex with valerian root, passionflower and hops. It makes me totally mellow, and is great for stress of any sort (I have a baby that cries alot, and it is amazing when I don't know what to do with him). Any B complex should help though, and stop drinking coffee or alcohol as they are about the worst thing for coping/stress. Hope this helps.