A brief introduction

[CoiledSpring]

Of course everyone is different but it's become nearly impossible for doctors to really help.  I know for me what works with the severe anxiety is exercise but actually getting myself outside where I live means dealing with people and a LOT of people most of the time which only escalates my anxiety.  Once I get through it I'm always better.

For me it's been a work in progress for at least 15 years now and just looking out for myself.  I'm sure the alcohol has a very similar effect on your fight or flight response as some of the medications (that I'm not sure I can mention here) would.  Unfortunately alcohol brings it's own set of issues as do meds.  Once we get that tolerance, for some of us it's a vicious cycle.  

I have found some things that work (one of which is actually called "the work") in addition to the exercise and just KNOWING I have a medical way out of a severe anxiety attack in my back pocket can be a huge relief, even if I don't use it.  Sometimes those responses manifest very physical symptoms - you're not alone looking for help that you need that's for sure.

Thanks for this

I got rid of panic attacks for a spell when I was 21.

I stayed off alcohol and exercised a lot for 3 months.  But I lived like a hermit that summer also (which I could because I was a student) whilst the attacks wound down.

So I know I can break the cycle.

However I have a job and two kids now - pressure at home and work but I love both sides of it but I can't do the 3 month hermit thing.

Maybe I am naive but I am certain - knowing my body - that a 3 month course of meds will sort this out. Or as you say the knowledge that you have something that will help.

I panic more when I am travelling - it's the sense that you feel so far away from medical help.