Recently diagnosed with panic attacks

[Racergirl254]

I am 31 yr old female, mother of 3 that has been recently diagnosed with panic attacks and depression. This came out of nowhere about 4 weeks ago when I was driving and turned my head to check on my 2 yr old in the backseat and then bam I got tunnel vision, and rapid heartbeat. I felt as if I was going to pass out cold. I pulled over and collected myself and waited on someone else to get there to drive myself and the kids home. Since then I have had episodes where my heart rate goes up, hot flashes, nervousness, heavy head feeling, tingling all over my body, vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue. It ***** so bad because I feel like I have let everyone around me down. I used to go all the time, I never stopped and this has stopped me completely, I won't even drive anymore. I hate being left alone. I was prescribed Zoloft and Vistaril and since I hate medicine I am terrified to take the meds and the fact that i am a single mother and my 2 yr old still wakes in the middle of the night alot. I was just wanting other people's opinions and what works for them. Am I just losing it completely?

[Paxiled]

Before resorting to medication I'd get myself immediately into CBT, a specific type of therapy.  Because you're at the very beginning of this it has a better chance of working, though it is hard work.  You might also look into relaxation techniques such as meditation and breathing exercises -- your CBT therapist will probably teach you some -- though with 3 kids it won't be easy finding the quiet time to do it!  

[Racergirl254]

Thank you so much.

[remar]

I can relate to your story. I remember my fist panic attack very well because it just came out of no where and I had no idea what was going on. The feelings lasted for a very long time, until I was diagnosed with anxiety and panic attacks. Once I realized that I was living a very stressful life it made sense. That''s what is most likely going on with you. Raising 3 children on your own can be incredibly stressful. Our minds and bodies can only take so much stress and then it can react by having panic attacks. I would recommend getting in to therapy if possible. It can really help you to understand your anxiety and also teach you coping skills. I understand your fear of meds. It took me a long time to finally start them but I'm glad I did because they really helped with my anxiety and panic attacks. We're always here to listen and help anyway we can.