New Here

Petra Clement · Post by **Petra Clement** » Mon Aug 11, 2008 11:40 am

Just wanted to come on board. I am new here and have had anxiety and panic for 30+ years. I have come a long way but am stuck not being able to go certain places without anxiety and panic alone. I can go with anyone and I can drive but alone is very difficult and it interferes with my life. I recently went on Zoloft and have been on it now for 3 weeks. In the past I was always afraid of meds and have not taken any but this time I think I really need to stay on it. I always read about surrendering to the panic.. I just have so much trouble with that. I am so glad I found this forum. I have the program but they are cassette tapes...haven't listened to them for a while.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Mon Aug 11, 2008 11:59 am

Welcome! You will get a lot of support here. Everyone is very friendly and informative.

Carolyn Dickman · Post by **Carolyn Dickman** » Wed Aug 13, 2008 4:52 pm

I am also just starting the program and I have the same problems you do. I do not drive alone because the anxiety kicks in and my B.P. goes very high. I have ended up in the ER. I can drive with someone else in the car. I don't know how to handle this problem. Any help??

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Wed Aug 13, 2008 6:06 pm

Hi moon drops,

I have had a big issue in the past with driving and still sometimes do. Sometimes when I feel panicky while I'm driving there are 1 of 2 things I have found useful. 1.) I call someone. Usually my hubby and just tell him to talk to me. About anything. To get my mind off of it. 2.)I listen to calm and relaxing music to help lower my blood pressure and relax me. Lucinda talks a lot about feeling the fear and breaking through the wall of anxiety, and for me that's what I've had to do to try and conquer. As far as your BP goes, do you take any medicine to regulate it? Have u been in the ER for blood pressure issues, or because anxiety drove you there. I take BP meds and exercise and it seems to help with my BP problems. Good luck to you, and welcome.

-Becky