To xanax or not to xanac

[sharlola35]

I can get my script filled tomorrow.  With everything going on with me especially the legal stuff I really need to calm down  I am going to give myself a heart attack with all of my worrying.  Last night got about 3 hours sleep and napped 2 hours today.  I have  been feeling better and dont want to blow it by popping those pills again.  I dont know.....

[sandstone27]

Hi again Sharlola,

Just one thing I wanted to add to Lulu's post - when you're doing deep breathing exercises, make sure when you inhale, that you're extending your diaphragm outward - if you put your hand on your belly when doing this it may help.  After a count of 6 (using Lulu's example), hold your breath for just a second and exhale slowly through your mouth - when you exhale, your belly will then flatten out as you expel the air out.

Alot of people tend to do the opposite, which can make things worse..
I hope this helps.  

Well wishes to you..

Sandy :)

[lulu747]

Sharlola...
Panic attacks are almost always caused by shallow breathing...We shallow breathe when we are stressed and emotionally overwhelmed.  Deep breathing goes a long way.  Try breathing in (through your nose) all the way down to your belly for 6 counts...then exhaling through your mouth for 6 counts.  Focus on the counting and your body filling with oxygen.  If you repeat this a few times it should bring you a sense of calm...

I know it is overwhelming to wake up in your life and feel as though everything is falling apart.  You can't solve it all at once.  Break it down into parts and focus on one small thing that you CAN do at a time.  It would really help for you to speak with a counsellor or therapist...Someone who can help you learn coping tools and give support.  No one does this alone.

Remember: you can't change the past or control the future...All you can do is make this the best moment you can.  Go easy on yourself...You've come a long way and being kind and compassionate with yourself is what will give you the strength to keep on going....

Sending you support...
Lu

[Addicted2long]

Where benzos your doc? I would avoid them at all costs but if you are having panic attacks and trouble sleeping you should see a doctor or therapist. You don't want to go through hell if you don't have to. Try otc stuff like melatonin for sleep see if it helps at all. I hope you feel better soon I will be praying for you.

[sharlola35]

Thanks for the posts, I really appreciate the support and insight.  I am a complete mess.  I know that things I did over a year ago were wrong and I have  to live with that forever.  I even feel like God is going to send me straight to hell when I die.  I have been getting chest pains off and on, I think it is just all of this stress.  I used to be so strong, what the hell happened to me????

[sandstone27]

Hi Sharlola -

I would avoid taking the benzos again if you can possibly help it.  I hated tapering off of them and I'm sure you did too.  It concerns me that you're under so much stress.  Stress affects just about every part of the mind and body, and not in a good way.  If it's severe enough it can have a profound effect on your health.  I'm not sure what your stress level is, but I would strongly consider seeing your doctor or a therapist for some one on one counseling.  

There are some great holistic therapists out there that can help you deal with your emotions and lessen those stress levels.  Even simple things like yoga, mediatation and deep breathing exercises can have a major impact on how you feel.

Best of luck to you...

Sandy :)

[lulu747]

Hi Sharlola

I have to agree with ImDONE...You've come so far...The benzo's are so hard to come off of and like you said...You're feeling better and you don't want blow  it by popping pills.  So don't do it.  I wish I'd had someone say this to me 2 and a half years ago...So now I'm saying it to you.  Cancel script...Take deep breaths...Keep posting....
Lu

[ImDONENoMore]

Don't do it.  Have your Dr. cancel the script - enough time has passed and you're so close to turning that corner.  Please, don't do it.