Hi Everyone. About 2 years ago I had my 1st panic attack. Sitting here watching a movie (it was Twister..funny how I remember it so vividly!) I was sure I was going to die! I got my husband to take me to the ER wher they told me I was having a panic attack! They gave me some Ativan and told me to go see my family doctor. Well it just so happened that my doc was on holidays for a month!! I thought my panic would go away but it stayed with me..I couldn't function..I was so afraid of having another one! My husband and best friend finally convinced me to go to the docs. Unfortunately, my doc was still on holidays so I saw one of the other ones in the office. He gave me Paxil (1/2 a pill). I was so nervous taking it but seemed to be getting better after a week. I finally got to see my own doc and he weaned me off of it. He said I had probably gotten better on my own cause being on paxil for a week wasnt really doing anything. I guess it was a case of mind over matter. Over the past 2 years my panic hasnt been bad at all until this past Christmas. I was at work and had another attack. Well its now 1 month later and i've been feeling anxious! Horribly anxious..it consumes my thoughts and I feel dizzy then I think I'm gonna pass out ( which I havent yet). Yesterday I had a really bad attack..lasted about 1hr. I just about didnt go back to work after lunch but am glad I did cause I felt better. The anxiety is still here..I'm really trying to get over it. I'm going to my docs tomorrow and am going to try to go on meds for a bit. I think I just need a jumpstart. Its been a really hard decision for me. I guess I feel like a failure if I go on them. But I don't know what else to do. I'm on the waiting list for an anxiety clinic but not sure how long that can take! I just want to be my "old" self again. I want to feel in control. I've lost interest in things..all I want to do is stay home. I'm scared to take meds cause of the side effects even though I know everyone reacts differently. I was just wondering if anyone had any suggestions or positive thoughts on meds. I feel better just reading some of the postings on this site and was hoping there was someone out there who could help me. Thanks!! :)