Help! I finished this program about two years ago and it was the best thing I ever did. Those of you who have completed know what I am saying, but the last 2 weeks I have started having mild symptoms of panic again. I immediately began the relazxation tape and positive self-talk. However, I am frustrated that this has occured. I was doing so well not one avoidance during that time but now, although I am not avoiding, I am thinking about it all over again. I know what I have to do and that to review the program again but my question is Has anyone else gone through this similiar situation and how did you over come this setback? What was the result? How are you now? Please any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

Conquering Fear!!
Jeff

quote:

Originally posted by jeffrey s:
Help! I finished this program about two years ago and it was the best thing I ever did. Those of you who have completed know what I am saying, but the last 2 weeks I have started having mild symptoms of panic again. I immediately began the relazxation tape and positive self-talk. However, I am frustrated that this has occured. I was doing so well not one avoidance during that time but now, although I am not avoiding, I am thinking about it all over again. I know what I have to do and that to review the program again but my question is Has anyone else gone through this similiar situation and how did you over come this setback? What was the result? How are you now? Please any feedback would be greatly appreciated!

Conquering Fear!!
Jeff

hey jeff
well you and i are in exactly the same position. i also finished the program about two years ago, and as of a month ago i've experienced some anxious days- resulting in headaches and stomache aches and its pretty much like you said "frustrating". but i know whats causing it; im going back to school in the fall. which is good but a change for me moving to a state where i know no one and starting school again after a 4 yr break. can you pin point what brought on this anxiety? then maybe wk on that? i ve started the relaxation tape again and reading lucinda's book from panic to power for like the 3rd time! i really try my hardest to accept what is going on inside of me right now and to be compassionate. this website really helps me, also ive recently discovered riding my bike works miracles for me. see, i usually wake up anxious, its like amorning thing for me. but i ride my bike around for about 20-25 minutes, and it really gets rid of my anxious energy. then i go into my day feeling pretty good. so i highly suggest some kind of exercise. let me know & always stay positive much love, missy

Hi Jeff! I've been through a couple of growth spurts after completing the program and the first one was very frustrating and a little scary. What I found, though, was that I became even stronger after going through the growth spurt. Although I was initially afraid I would go back to square one, I found out, instead, that I had all of the skills I needed to handle the anxiety. My guess is that you will feel the same way too.

Missy, I can relate to your anxiety as my major growth spurt occurred after I moved to another town where I really didn't know anyone and I had left my "safe" friends. It sounds like you are doing well in handling the anxiety. Exercise really does make a difference!

It seems that, at times, we have difficulty distinguishing "normal" anxiety from our "panic-driven" anxiety. I agree with Missy's point -- can you pinpoint what is causing the anxiety? Jeff, it sounds like you are doing the things you need to do to counter the anxiety. Try not to make it any bigger than it is. Its okay -- so there's some anxiety. Use your skills, keep listening to the relaxation tape, and keep things in perspective. You can do it!

[This message has been edited by mountaingirl (edited 05-06-2001).]

Even though I just bought the program in October, I have had years in my life where I function well. Unfortunately, a major trauma (a move, childbirth, child chronic illness, etc.) can set me back to the black hole.

I remember a counselor suggested that when I knew I was going to have to move to remember that is a time where I have trouble and that is when it is most important to keep a schedule and make time for myself and my health. A lot easier said than done, but it works.

Anyway, I find that when I get there I immediately cut out the sugars, caffeine, etc., and walk about 2 miles a day. Within a few days I am usually sleeping better and feeling somewhat "normal".

Look back over the last year and see what changes you've made and try to make the necessary corrections. Remember Dorothy's Magic Slippers, You have the tools, too.

We can be the Kings and Queens of denial. Get honest with yourself and dig deep to help yourslef figure out what needs to be changed and I bet you'll be better sooner than you think.

Good luck,

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Always Hopeful, Betsy H.
Marietta, GA (East Cobb)


[This message has been edited by EastCobbGABetsyH (edited 05-06-2001).]