YOU ARE NOT ALONE - A companion online community discussion board for The Mental Illness Happy Hour podcast with Paul Gilmartin

I should've seen it coming. This fall I was riding high... I've been really happy with work, have been exercising regularly, feeling great. Then Christmas came and bam! I was hit with a panic attack and now I'm terrified I"m in this cycle again of panic and depression.
The funny thing is, I just realized that this is what that is. I've been on meds for depression for years, but never realized that it gets kicked off by these panic attacks. In a way, it's kind of a relief to put a name to it. Anyway, I'm just wondering how other people feel when they have panic attacks. For me, it feels like a sense of doom or grief, like I'm mourning something that hasn't even happened. Like there is actual evil looming above me. On a physical level, it feels like there's poison running though my veins. My arms feel weak and my breathing is shallow. Does anyone else ever feel this?

Oh no, I'm sorry to hear this.

Having been through two panic attacks in early December, I certainly feel for you. I've had a total of four in the past two years, and if I never have another one it will be too soon.

My second panic attack felt like Death was near me. Not a Grim Reaper or malevolent figure, just Death.

Panic attacks are the real deal, my friend. Anything new to report?

thanks so much, Oak. I'm doing much better now. Yes-- Death. It's the scariest, worst feeling in the world. It took me a good three or four days to shake it completely out of my system. I can't help but think that it's something totally chemical, because it just takes over your whole body. thanks for commenting. It helps to know I'm not alone!

Great! Keep us posted.