Struggling to COPE with Panic Attacks and Anxiety

Hi everyone,

Im having a really tough time at the minute i have suffered with panic attacks from a really young age and as i have gotten older i have developed anxiety too. This is usually triggered by something changing in my life.. Im currently 13 and a half weeks pregnant with my first child so naturally this is a huge change to my body and i can honestly say my body hasnt taken very well to it.

Ive had really bad hyperemesis gravidarum from 4 weeks and have been in and out of hospital on iv fluids.. if that wasnt enough three weeks ago my panic attacks and anxiety hit like a tonne of bricks.. I have been on and off Fluoxetine for years and they have always worked and made me feel better once they eventually kick in but when your going through this day in day out it makes you feel it is never going to go away. Im terrified in my own skin, hate being on my own always have to be with someone, i feel totally disconnected from tge world and everything i know. I wouldnt wish this on my worst enemy most days i wish i didnt have to wake up just so i wouldnt have to feel like this anymore. It feels like its never going to go away..

This is suppose to be one of the happiest times of my life ive always longed to have my own children and right now I cant even get excited about it.. Im in such a dark place right now I just dont know how much more I can take 😔

Hi Leanne

I really feel for you. Anxiety is horrible and pregnancy can be a really difficult time too for many women as it wreaks havoc with your hormones. I really struggled emotionally when I was pregnant, but it will get easier. All I can suggest is focusing on one day at a time and I'm sure in time you will start to notice an improvement as your body adjusts to the changes. I found months 4-6 brought a bit of normality an relief during my pregnancy. Have you spoken to your doctor or midwife about how your feeling? Take care and be kind to yourself x

Hi there, I am new on the anxiety forum but not new to anxiety.  Had it for years and always fearing panic attacks is awful.  I don't like being on my own any more.  Pregnancy will make you worse - initially but will settle down.

I have started meditation and have bought some books on it.  In one there are many different ways to meditate - some are 5 mins long others are longer.

I see a therapist for stomach issues and she meditates for up to 2 hours each day.  She said she could not possibly function without doing it. She is a Reiki master.

In my book it says "the best medication is daily meditation" and I am definitely finding a difference in myself.  Have you tried it - it really does give your mind a well deserved break from overthinking which is what is the problem.

Feeling this for you but there are things we can do.

Hi Cara,

Thank you so very much for your reply just doesnt feel like its ever gping to get easier i just want to feel normal again 😔 I have spoken to both and they have said it will take time for the meds to get in to my system ive been referred for CBT too but cant have that whilst im pregnant.. Every day feels like a constant battle it terrifies me xxx

Hi Gwen,

Thank you so very much for your reply. Meditation is something ive never actually tried I have been to see a Hypnotherapist who unfortunately just took my money and didnt help me in the slightest.

I do plan to see another one who has been recommended to me by a friend... I really need something to work I cant live like this anymore xxxx

It always feels like it's never going to get better when your in the grips of anxiety and depression, but I promise you it will. Gwen's suggestion of meditation is a good idea. Mindfulness is particularly good for anxiety because it forces you to be in the moment rather than in your thoughts. I hope you have lots of supportive people around you at this difficult time. Try to keep yourself occupied wherever possible and spend time with those that love you. It feels dreadful now, but it will get easier and you will be stronger for having survived it. I wish you all the best x