Stress Center Peer Support

I just had a panic attack. This is my third one this week. I take medication for my anxiety, but it does not seem to help. I have Lucinda's dvd collection and I have just recently started watching it again. It helps calm me when I am in an attack.

I am getting ready to go to court to testify against my husband for all the abuse that he has done to me. We are fighting over custody of our 2 year old son. This has been what is triggering my attacks. I am trying my best to control them, but it is difficult. Does anyone have any suggestions? I am open to just about anything.

Michelle - First, I would try to recognize that there is an outside stimulant (the court appearance) that is making you uncomfortable. Who wouldn't be nervous or anxious about that? Give yourself permission to feel anxious and then let it pass.

Second, I would take note that you clearly survived the panic attack (since you wrote to us) and you always will survive. I know how awful these things are, but after the thousands of panic attacks I've had over the last two decades, I've always survived, I've never gone crazy, I've never passed out, and most of my fears have never come true. I think it's a safe bet to assume these fears never will come true!

Lastly, I'd try to focus on doing relaxation exercises, getting enough physical exercise each day, and making sure that negative thoughts are dismissed and replaced with positive self-talk. You are a strong person and can get through this.

Best of luck,
JB