Anxiety, feeling like things are unreal

[Miffy87]

Hi. Im 24, female. Iv been suffering with anxiety/panic attacks for quite a few months. I was referred to NHS Time to Talk and it helped for a bit, but has recently become worse. I went out for the first time in a while and everything felt weird, like i wasnt there and i was dreaming it. The next day it really freaked me out and now i cant stop thinking "Is this real". Everyday it feels like im trying to not panic. Its making me really down. Does anybody else get this?

[Miffy87]

Thank you for the reply. Yes i did stop the Time to Talk, they only give you 6 sessions and teach CBT. They did mention medication but id rather try everything i can before its the last resort. Your reply has helped, im hoping to hear from the NHS again next week, but i will try what you have suggested. Thank you again.

[JGF25]

It is called derealization/depersonalization and is an anxiety symptom.  It can go hand-in-hand with the other anxiety symptoms.  I think you need to contact NHS Time to Talk again and see if you can go back and continue with the therapy.  You didn't mention if you had stopped it or not but I'm assuming you have.  Did they teach you cognitive behavioral therapy strategies?  Did they discuss medication with you as an option provided you are open to that?  

Do your breathing exercises in the mean time.  They really help bring your heart rate back down and you can then think more rationally.  If you don't know the breathing technique, post again and I will tell it to you.  Lastly, try to keep yourself occupied with reading, etc.  You can even try some meditation.  There are a lot of meditation videos on the web that are free.  

Good luck and post again to let us know how you are doing!