Panic attacks

[Iron Man]

I've noticed that since last year, I've been sweating a lot more than usual, so I tried multiple deodorants. Arm & Hammer worked, so that problem was somewhat solved. Ever since I got my license, in March I think, I was free to go wherever, like shopping. However, when I shop, I notice that my sweating gets worse, my heart starts to race, and I am extremely shaky. I self-diagnosed what was happening to me as panic attacks. It makes me not want to go to the mall, or find a girlfriend, because I am extremely nervous. The other day, I went to the mall, and I was literally drenched in sweat, so I sat in the bathroom to dry myself off and regroup. Is there a natural way that I can stop this?

[HOLEinyoursoul]

You need to talk to someone about this, find a doctor or a therapist to diagnose you and help you :) Do things you know calm you down, maybe see if there's something you can carry around that would help like a stressball or something. I tend to use my lighter for stress relief. I take it out and flick it so it sparks. Funny, I know. Focusing on your breathing is also good, it can calm you down a lot, because usually when you're stressed your breathing can get funky. Burn sage when you're at home, it seriously does wonders. Good luck!

[FullyAlive]

Okay, perhaps you could try and identify the problem too? As in what's the cause is it particular situations? People? General anxiety? My psych nurse offered me pills for my anxiety which induced panic attacks, if it is anxiety maybe its worth checking out?

As for stopping them I'm not sure about stopping then altogether but if you can feel it coming in then there are different things you can do to try and prevent it from escalating. One method i've found effective is putting a calming picture in your head sitting in your hands and breathing in for 5 holding it for 5 then breathing out for five. If your in the middle of a panic attack then breathing into a paper bag helps too there's some sciencey reason about carbon dioxide but I don't know that.

But if they are a big problem then it really might be an idea to see a professional to help you identify the causes and learn effective coping methods.

[Iron Man]

Okay, perhaps you could try and identify the problem too? As in what's the cause is it particular situations? People? General anxiety? My psych nurse offered me pills for my anxiety which induced panic attacks, if it is anxiety maybe its worth checking out?

As for stopping them I'm not sure about stopping then altogether but if you can feel it coming in then there are different things you can do to try and prevent it from escalating. One method i've found effective is putting a calming picture in your head sitting in your hands and breathing in for 5 holding it for 5 then breathing out for five. If your in the middle of a panic attack then breathing into a paper bag helps too there's some sciencey reason about carbon dioxide but I don't know that.

But if they are a big problem then it really might be an idea to see a professional to help you identify the causes and learn effective coping methods.

I think it may be linked to my agoraphobia (fear of crowds), which seems to fit, because I don't panic when I'm with a few people. As for the origin, it could be due to my mom's ex, whom I felt intimidated around due to the constant fighting. I can't see a psychiatrist right now, because of my financial situation, but I will try the counting and mental picture. Hopefully it tames the attacks.

[FullyAlive]

Oh yeah I forgot some countries make you pay. And if it is the crowds thing then try to stay away from them where possible and when you can't perhaps take someone who understands and you're comfortable with?

[Iron Man]

Oh yeah I forgot some countries make you pay. And if it is the crowds thing then try to stay away from them where possible and when you can't perhaps take someone who understands and you're comfortable with?

I went with my mom when I had my panic attack at the mall, and I am comfortable with her, so I don't think that would help :(

It makes me sad that I can't go anywhere without that fear of a panic attack.

[FullyAlive]

Hmm okay well it was worth suggesting. I don't really have any other suggestions for you other than what i've said, but try not to build up that fear in your head I know when they happen panic attacks can be pretty scary however they aren't really the end of the world if they happen then they happen, don't start being too worried about them if you start to anticipate them or get panicky at the thought of it etc you'll only bring them on easier.

[Iron Man]

Hmm okay well it was worth suggesting. I don't really have any other suggestions for you other than what i've said, but try not to build up that fear in your head I know when they happen panic attacks can be pretty scary however they aren't really the end of the world if they happen then they happen, don't start being too worried about them if you start to anticipate them or get panicky at the thought of it etc you'll only bring them on easier.

Very true. I appreciate your help though