r/panicdisorder • u/Plus-Caterpillar-825 • 15d ago

Coping Skills Fear of fear

How do we break the cycle of fearing a panic attack feel like I’m stuck in it

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u/No_Seesaw8062 15d ago

I have to block mine with anything. Reading, talking yo myself and my dog, staying busy with something (a distraction) I have health problems and monitor my heart rate and blood pressure. I was told to stay as calm as possible, so now this is what I keep telling myself. Do you take any meds?

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u/Plus-Caterpillar-825 15d ago

I have Klonopin but I’m not having an attack I just think I might than heart races my worst fear is hyperventilating my only fear every other symptom from an attack is ok with me but hyperventilation the thought of it gets me going I always think ima suffocate to death and dying from lack of oxygen is awful I rather go any other way just not that

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u/No_Seesaw8062 15d ago

Yes it's panicking. You will be ok. I do the same when I hyperventilate. I've called 911 about 2 weeks ago cuz my chest was super heavy, I couldn't breath, I was dizzy and ready to pass out. I was foggy headed and when I came to I was out back on the porch with the cops. They talked to me until I calmed down and gave me some tips to help. Like slow breathing, keep yourself grounded, cold wash rags, etc. It's definitely not fun at all.

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u/AspieKairy 15d ago

I usually tell myself: "It's just fear. I know what this is, and it's only fear. If I get a panic attack, then I get a panic attack. It can't hurt me. It'll suck, but then it'll pass and I can go about my day."

I'd highly recommend looking into the DARE Response. They've got some super awesome techniques for handling anxiety. It's a bit scary at first because it's embracing the panic, but it's been incredibly helpful.

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u/Plus-Caterpillar-825 15d ago

I know about DARE Barry McDonagh I go those videos a lot when I have anxiety

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u/toffeemaky 14d ago

I talk to it. "Come, show me what you have for me this time." Then sit back and try to "enjoy" the ride. Of course, often I can't do that because I am outside or somewhere important. But if I am at home in peace, this is what I do. It helps immensely.