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December 20, 2006
Panic Attack
When things seem rough, like they have in the past week, I am amazed to discover that my real adversary is panic. It's that massive creature that looks like it will overwhelm me and I won't survive. I realized I don't have to fight panic because it's a vapor. The obstacles I face are really challenges I have to find solutions for, not obstacles at all and certainly don't create the panic I feel. The panic I feel is created by me. It is a feeling of inadequacy to the task at hand. And that's why we think we are going to fail. It can be overwhelming when we don't think we can do it, whatever it is. Even though everything can be broken down into smaller tasks, it's hard to remember that. Especially when there are deadlines to deal with and things are messed up. So my projects are difficult, that doesn't mean that I can afford to be locked up by panic attacks. It means I have to start thinking. I have to start thinking about what the problems really are and how to break them down into solvable tasks. I have to start thinking creatively and of course devote more energy to it. I stayed late at work tonight, but not too late. Tomorrow is going to be challenging but it will teach me valuable lessons. No panic, just work. It'll happen. I've already made lists to follow and a plan is forming in my mind of how to deal with all of the sudden and conflicting priorities.
Even though I have this plan, I am still amazed at how panic creeps up and makes me feel diminutive and incapable. Panic is not the challenge though, I remember and realize. Panic is myresponse to the challenge. Is that the response I need right now?
Posted by carl1236 at December 20, 2006 09:31 PM | Attitude
Comments
I used to get panic and anxiety attacks - got so bad that I had to take meds for a while. All better now though - exercise, stretching and diet did the trick for me. Try and stay off medication if you can (especially Xanax) because it just makes you more dependent on them and makes it much more difficult when you get off of them. Anyway, good luck to you.
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Bob
Posted by: Bob at January 1, 2007 02:43 PM
panic attacks happen after your thoughts run amok about the things that stress you out. Try not to focus on those things that lead you into a panic mode. Instead, think of things that are calming to you. Remember that it's just a anxiety and know in your mind that you can control it.
Posted by: Noah Thomas at April 29, 2007 05:31 PM
Awesome post Carl. "The panic I feel is created by me." I cannot agree more! The first step towards curing your panic attacks is to accept that it will do no harm to you and you are able to control it. I know, it IS hard... I wish the all the best for you in your efforst!
Posted by: Frank Wilms at May 15, 2007 03:11 AM
Yes. Exercise and breathing techniques did the trick for me as well. I also would count when a panic attack would strike. It helped me focus on calming down, rather than the debilitating effects of the attack. You can find more tips at www.stop-anxiety-panic-attack.com
-Rachel
Posted by: Rachel at October 6, 2007 10:55 AM