Young Anxiety

[SamanthaLynn]

I am 17 yr. old with constant anxiety. I am active I am a gymnast and I cheer. I get panic about stupid things like my heart would beat really fast when I walk up the stairs and I get anxious that my heart will not stop beating fast, but it always calms down. Or driving in the dark I always get anxious when I drive because I dont want to crash and have my parents yell at me. Well those are my problems. I dont want to go on any anxiety pills, I just need natural ways to calm me down...anyone got any suggestions? Thanks =)

[Mitch82]

To understand the anxiety attack itself is a great step to controlling it, it is a fear based reaction and one can end up simply fearing the fear itself and not the thing that triggered it. The funny thing about your heart beating faster is that the anxiety will cause it to beat faster so the cycle will continue.  I agree with amanda__nichole you should stop and take stock of the situation, this will allow you to see reason and move on, I know it is not as easy as I make it sound but if you give it a go you will get there.

[amanda__nichole]

I would try imagining yourself driving without having the panic attack. that works for me. Doing visual exercise have really helped me. Also just tell yourself this to will pass. and that you'll be okay. and remember to KEEP BREATHING!
if you want to talk to anyone you can leave me a note or message me on here. :-]

[SamanthaLynn]

I don't think we have a guidance counselor at my school...But I will defiantly try to talk to a therapist! Thanks =)

[ILADVOCATE]

Start by speaking to the school guidance counselor. They can refer you to a talk therapist and you can see what to do from there. Medication isn't always a bad option but in addition to that talk therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy works as well. But first have the guidance counselor refer you to a psychologist and take things one step at a time.