Hi, I'm new. :)
I was wondering if anyone else experiences disturbing thoughts immediately preceding a panic attack? I usually have an attack while trying to fall asleep, and lately I have noticed that before the symptoms (shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, intense fear, etc.) begin my mind creates this bizarre mental image out of nowhere, like something out of a nightmare or a horror movie, and I am unable to control my thoughts away from the image. Sometimes I will be in the middle of a relaxation techique (daydreaming or breathing exercises) and totally zoned out when an image of something completely random and horrifying pops into my head. And I can't let go of the image, like my mind is fixating on it completely against my will. From there, a panic attack is inevitable.
I've had attacks for about a year now and this only started in the last week or so. For the record, I've never had a panic attack in my sleep and I haven't had an actual nightmare since I was a little kid. No recent trauma either. I'm really starting to think I'm going crazy. Has anyone heard of this before?
Thanks!!
