I had panic attacks very often from the age of 15-20, then they stopped but have!

I had panic attacks very often from the age of 15-20, then they stopped but have now come back, don't know why

When I first suffered panic attacks, they were triggered by an eating disorder and all centered around eating situations, but now I have no idea why they come on as they now always happen at night when I'm trying to sleep. Does anyone know if there is anything I can do to prevent them? Preferably without going to the doctor as all they seem to do is throw pills at you? Thanks

Hello! I’m sorry to hear about you getting panic attacks. I used to have them too (for about 15 years). They stopped after I took a course of Cognitive Behavioural therapy. CBT is proven to be the most effective thing for panic attacks (and for a lot of other things). The trouble is, it takes a bit of work. However, I have found it to be super effective.

You can take a course for free online at: http://www.livinglifetothefull.com/elear... It has been funded by NHS Scotland and has had great results thus far. A ‘prettier’ version of this type of programme can be bought at www.thewellnessshop.co.uk. If you don’t like computers, the best book is Dr Robert Burns, The Feeling Good Handbook. It is brilliant and used by many psychologists. Also see http://www.cci.health.wa.gov.au/resource... for good anxiety work sheets and information.

All I can say is CBT changed my life. I had to put in a lot of work, but my panic attacks have been virtually eliminated. I also did relaxation exercise tapes 2 or 3 times every day for a year. I still do relaxation exercises from time to time.

If you are overwhelmed by information, remember this: control your breathing and you control panic. If you manage to regulate your breathing it is impossible to get a panic attack. Breathe in slowly through your nose pushing your tummy out. Breathe out slowly and for a bit longer through your mouth. Do not breathe rapidly or shallowly (in the chest area).

Good luck!