out of control

[lakepontchartrain]

I don't know what to do anymore, except mayb start taking my meds at night instead of during the day because I realize most of my symptoms happen at night or when I try to sleep. I'm an idiot.

But my night panic attacks are out of control. The other day I didn't get to sleep until 9 am the next day because of hours upon hours of physical symptoms and panic and just feeling off. I feel like I'm dying. I have intense heart health fear and constantly worry I'm THIS close to having a heart attack and dying, and that I'll get no help. My mom works the night shift and takes the only working car, and whenever I have my "episodes" my dad automatically assumes it's the anxiety (which I know it is) and never takes into account something could be wrong, and I just CAN'T  stop thinking something IS WRONG. Why? Why am I so damn scared? This is eating me alive.

[nursegirl6572]

Sounds like a great plan!  The therapist sounds like she will be able to help you with multiple issues, and I like that your doc is being thorough, making sure you're okay physically/medically as well as mentally.

Let us know!

[lakepontchartrain]

Also was recommended a therapist by my doctor that will take my medicaid, and she's for anxiety/depression and also weight control and nutrition, so will be checking her out : )

[lakepontchartrain]

Went to the doctor this morning, got meds uped to 20mg, and got put on a stomach med. In a previous post I described a bunch of stomach issues I've been having and doctor thinks it's most likely IBS that I developed due to my anxiety, so I'll be going in for testing to check how my stomach empties. Also did testing for diabetes since I am very at risk (overweight and large family history) and have had the big warning signs, and will be getting the results within tomorrow or the next day.

[nursegirl6572]

I agree, therapy is VITAL.  The medications can help control the symptoms and make it a whole lot easier for you to function, but the therapy will help you to learn ways to cope, and ways you can help yourself.

Keep us posted!

[Paxiled]

Some do, some don't.  The problem is that CBT practitioners don't usually take any kind of insurance, but maybe you can find one who does.  In fact, you might have better luck with medicaid.

[lakepontchartrain]

I'm actually on medicaid, would a therapist accept that?

[Paxiled]

Make sure the therapist specializes in anxiety treatment, and try to find a CBT practitioner.  Unfortunately they don't usually take insurance, but most therapists don't specialize in anxiety and you can end up chatting the daily news for years.

[lakepontchartrain]

Thank you, guys. Thankfully I have an appointment with my GP this thursday. I am on one 10mg of escitalopram a day and I think I definitely need to up the medication. I unfortunately am not in therapy nor have I ever been, but I am planning on it. My mom and I found some to check out.

[nursegirl6572]

I'm so sorry you're having such severe panic, I've been there...it's just awful.

For starters, you're NOT an idiot!  WHY would you even THINK that sweetie?  You cannot help that you have anxiety, none of us can.  

I agree with Paxiled....time to get back in front of your doctor to discuss a new (or amended) treatment plan.  Are you on any medications?  Therapy?  How long have you been struggling with anxiety?

Dealing with those terrifying "what if" thoughts is not easy...but with consistent, intense therapy (preferably CBT), it can be done.  You have to learn how to dismiss those thoughts.  I know, easier said than done, but there are strategies.  

First, you're focusing on the FEAR.....focus on the FACTS.  The FACTS always tell a different story than our fearful brains do.  The facts most likely would tell you that your heart is fine, and nothing bad is going to happen with your heart.  Heart related anxiety is extra tough, because obviously, anxiety causes heart like symptoms, like an increased heart rate, palpitations, dizziness, etc.  Write the FACTS down (ie...."I am young", "I don't have any health problems", "my heart has been checked with EKG, blood work...etc"), and read them (out loud even) when you start worrying about your heart.

Give your doctor a call....you're having debilitating panic and it needs to be treated.  If you're not already in therapy, ask for a referral ASAP.  If you are, make an appt to talk with your therapist about increasing your sessions, or doing something different, as what you're doing now isn't obviously effective.

Hang in there...know that you're not alone.   Anxiety is really a bear.  There is a light at the end of the tunnel.  With some time, patience, help from others (including professionals)...you'll be able to manage it, and won't be panicking like you are now.

Keep us updated!

[Paxiled]

If it's this bad maybe it's time to consult your psychiatrist about changing medication.  Most important, are you in therapy?