Going to a conference - scared!

I'm going to a 3 day conference with my boss!  I started at this firm 1 month ago and nobody knows about my anxiety and panic attacks.  I'm already having nightmares that he'll find out and it'll ruin my career.  I'm scared that he'll see me popping Klonopin at lunch or I'll have one of those scary panic attacks.

I can't see a therapist before I go, next week, so how should I handle it?  I don't even go shopping.....my significant other does, because it freaks me out....and I panic when there's a lot of people..

any advice???

Thanks!!

[mammo]

Hi.  It sounds like you're developing some agoraphobia and this needs to be addressed with your psychiatrist, there is medication for this. You can always excuse yourself at lunch and go to the restroom to take your medication, and nobody will know.  Take several deep breaths throughout the day, slowly in thru your nose and out of your mouth.
Exercise is great for anxiety as well.  Also, know that many of the people you will be with are probably suffering from anxiety as well, and struggling to get thru the conference. Try concentrating on something other than all the people that are there.  Keep your mind occupied with other thoughts.  People (even bosses) are more empathetic than you realize when it comes to someone struggling with anxiety, I think to put this worry out of your mind would help you a lot.  The Klonopin should get you thru the conference, and then seek help with the agoraphobia when you get back.  I do wish you all the best, and take care.

[mammo]

Hi.  It sounds like you're developing some agoraphobia and this needs to be addressed with your psychiatrist, there is medication for this. You can always excuse yourself at lunch and go to the restroom to take your medication, and nobody will know.  Take several deep breaths throughout the day, slowly in thru your nose and out of your mouth.
Exercise is great for anxiety as well.  Also, know that many of the people you will be with are probably suffering from anxiety as well, and struggling to get thru the conference. Try concentrating on something other than all the people that are there.  Keep your mind occupied with other thoughts.  People (even bosses) are more empathetic than you realize when it comes to someone struggling with anxiety, I think to put this worry out of your mind would help you a lot.  The Klonopin should get you thru the conference, and then seek help with the agoraphobia when you get back.  I do wish you all the best, and take care.

[425runner]

Thanks so much for the encouragement.  I didn't know there was a treatment for this agoraphobia.  Like SSRI's or something?  I'm on Wellbutrin XL 150 mg and Klonopin 1mg/day and feel great!  Except for this fear of going out, shopping, meeting people, etc.

I'll try to discuss it on my next visit.

[mammo]

You're very welcome, and do mention this to your doctor.  Medication is what has allowed most of us to get back outside and live a normal life. Enjoy the conference, I know you'll do great!