I have been battling panic since I was 5. I'm now 31. Granted, there have been several large chunks of time when it was 'in remission' (I don't know of a better term), but it's always been lurking.
Panic may not be life-threatening for many, but it is a lifelong illness for most of us. It is debilitating because it takes away basic freedoms, like leaving your home, the ability to socialize, the ability to work. It is hard to live with, for both the person with the panic, as well as their partners and families. Who knows if it's even hereditary? My granny had it, my mum has it (controlled now), and I have it. I'm terrified that some way I will transfer it to my children.
Sarah, you sound like you may be further along in your recovery than CanadianMel, MichaelP and I and I envy you your power of positive thinking. Some of us don't have that skill or are still trying to develop it. For this reason, panic feels life-threatening because it is eating away at our lives.
MichaelP, I feel for you. I am so sorry that your symptoms are so severe. Ironically, you make me feel blessed that my panic symptoms are minor compared to yours. Hang in there. Take pride in the things you can do.
CanadianMel, you have nothing to be ashamed of. We have an identified problem with real, debilitating effect. True, it may not kil us, but it sure as heck affects our daily life. Much like a cancer patient. I understand and feel the same guilt as you do.
Sarah ;)
