Is this a panic/anxiety attack?!

Is this a panic/anxiety attack?

I have recentley had a serious of extremely stressful and upsetting events happen in my life. I am now getting these 'attacks' where my chest feels very tight and I struggle to breath. I also feel very weepy and that I have to get out of whatever room I am in, just to get away. Are these panic attacks and if so, what can I do about them?

Hi! I’m so sorry to hear you’re feeling bad. Try the following 3 steps (they eliminated my panic attacks of15 years):

1.Breathe properly - if you control your breathing, you control panic. As soon as you notice the signs of anxiety, check your breathing: breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out (to the count of 5 or so). Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer (to the count of 7 or so) through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area). This will soon restore the balance of oxygen and you will feel a lot better.

2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy! CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks and social anxiety. It takes a bit of work, but it is super effective. You can speak to your doctor about taking a course or you can take a course for free online at: http://www.livinglifetothefull.com/... It has been funded by NHS Scotland and has had great results thus far.

3. Try relaxation exercise tapes (progressive muscular relaxation). They really help if you practise often enough. This site has instructions on how to do it without the tapes (and other useful info): http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resource...

I hope this helps and you feel better soon. Don’t give up hope! Best of luck!