Hey Gina! The holidays are always harder because I think we demand too much of ourselves. I know that I keep feeling a little anxious when I think about the two bar-b-q's I have to go to this weekend. They are both with family so you'd think that should make it easier, but it's not. We'll see how it goes....
I know everyone has their own opinions about why panic is what it is and I know that your theory is a chemical imbalance while mine is that it's thoughts alone. So, I'm not sure how to answer your question about what meds would take this away for you without causing a debate. But, I do know that I took Paxil and Lorazepam for 7 years and still had panic attacks. I've been off them for six months now and have been working on the Cognitive Behavior Therapy program offered on this website without any meds at all and I have had far less panic than I have had in the 12 years I've dealt with this. When I do get panicky, it is nowhere near the same intensity it was. And I am feeling stronger and more in control than I have in years. Not completely healed, don't know if I will ever be, but I am working on it. But, I do feel hopeful. I still get anxious and panicky, like today, but it's not as bad as it has been in the past. Still unpleasant, but easier. I'm still working on the program and am sure I will be for some time, but I refuse to give up. Keep fighting! I know you can do it because you deserve it!!
Try to take it easy this weekend and don't expect too much of yourself. One thing I always tell myself is to try to enjoy life for what it is, not what I think it should be. A lot of my panic comes from not being able to be what I think I should be. So, I'm trying to accept myself for who I am instead.
Hang in there! I hope you can enjoy your weekend!!
