panic attacks

OK So I have a history of anxiety - that is typically well controlled when I live life per my norm. Well the second my boss suggests that I go out on site with him I freak - what the heck is up with that? I actually try to figure out all the reasons why I can't go including calling out sick etc... I think I need to see a shrink. I am sitting here in a cold sweat with the shakes just dreading when he is going to come back and ask me about it! It isn't far away, maybe 35 minutes, and I'd drive myself. But I get into an absolute panic attack just thinking about it

Just needed to vent

Aaahhhh, Liz... deep breaths, deep breaths... baby steps.    Or tell him 'No' I can't do it!  Thinking of you.

Hi Liz -
Have you sat down and worked out why the anxiety happens?  Is it the drive itself?  Is it the fact that you have to present yourself to clients?  Is it about being out of your comfort zone? 

Perhaps if you can address the source of your anxiety, it would help.  I myself prefer Ativan for anxiety.  It really helps and calms anxiety almost instantly for me.  You may not be interested in trying something like that though since you are trying to get pregnant. 

Lisa

Lisa - I have xaxax, but like you said - not taking it because I am trying to get prenant, that is what made me "normal" before. I'll have to really look into it - I really have no problems with clients, I know I am good at what I do. WEll the drive only a little bit - I hate driving in Philly but I can do it. I think it is being out of my comfort zone. 

I think I might look into what mental health coverage my insurance has....

Thanks ladies!

Liz

Liz, 

Sorry to hear you're going through all this.  I think you should also include everything you've been going through recently into the "why" of why being outside your comfort zone might be especially 'freaky' to you right now.  Counseling can help a lot especially if you find someone who has a background in cognitive behavioral therapy.  Touchy, feely therapy is great but I have found to really get a better plan for my anxiety, depression, panic attacks, fear, shutting down, withdrawal, etc. (just a couple of things to work on - LOL) that the cog behavioral sets you up with "new scripts" and plans for when you have an "event."  BUT, that being said, different strokes for different folks but I applaud you for wanting to help yourself by engaging in a therapeutic relationship that can help you build a stronger you.

k

Liz, I am sorry you are feeling anxiety, but I would like to tell you something that I have seen since I met you around six months ago........................................you take the stress and anxiety out of the people who come to your home for the first time, you only knew us from the OH forum and opened your home to us.....don't you realize what a gift you are to other people?  Maybe your boss sees this in you too and you may be giving something to someone else by going out on site and meeting other people.......I don't know your religious beliefs but mine are God won't give you more than you can handle TODAY...............so as with our weight loss journey, one day at a time.....................I will pray for you that you can decide what you want to do, but in the mean time you have been a blessing to me by your hospitality and love and to all you have opened your home and heart too.................................Lois

Lois - you are too kind! Cooking is my therapy. (hence the 327 pounds I was!)

I know that my boss has a lot of faith in me and likes when I meet with customers - I Just have a problem with being out of my comfort zone - I think that I am going to break down today and call a professional - I'm sure it can't hurt.

And I treasure every moment I share with my friends every month!

So much good advice already!  I do agree, you'll need to work on WHY you have the anxiety about going out on site.

You're a homebody type of person - which is WONDERFUL, and not to mention you make a BEAUTIFUL home, and as I think it was Lois, said, make everyone feel so welcome in your home, and that definately is a gift.  Not everyone can do that.

Now to work on reactions outside the home, and plan and prepare for these instances.

I'm sure you will do GREAT whenever you go to a site - and I know you've done it before.

Hugs in the meantime!

Pam

Thanks Pam :)

I do love my routine!

*hugs* back

learn to meditate would be my suggestion. Good luck Liz.