By: Colleen Andre, LMHC

“Nothing. Nothing is wrong with you according to my assessments.” the doctor states. After visiting the emergency room, your doctor’s office, and having multiple blood work done, your doctor has just determined that nothing is wrong with you, at least to your body. Then why in the world do you feel as if you are dying at times?

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Panic attacks. Panic attacks are what you are feeling. Panic attacks are a sudden surge of overwhelming anxiety, fear, and loss of control. Panic attacks can last from a few minutes or longer.

Listed below are just some symptoms of a panic attack:

  •    Increase heart rate
  •    Shortness of breath
  •    Dizziness
  •    Blurry vision
  •    Chest pains or tightening

When people experience a panic attack often times they will believe they are dying, having a heart attack, or going crazy. You may only experience it once in your lifetime, or you may re-experience it several times.

A concern is raised when panic attacks become a frequent occurrence or it is preventing you from living your life to its fullest. For example, you do not join in on certain activities or go out to specific places out of fear of having another attack. Or, you constantly worry or fear having another attack.

Sometimes panic attacks can be a wake-up call alerting you to deeper issues of anxiety. Do not let this fear control you! Call today at 407- 622-1770 for a free 15-minute consultation or make your first appointment online here. 

Colleen headshotAbout Colleen: Colleen values the importance of a comfortable and non-judgmental atmosphere. At the heart of her work, she seeks to create a safe environment in which clients can feel at ease while working through life’s difficulties. Her specialty is working with women and adolescents struggling with anger management, trauma, and anxiety. She also enjoys assisting those facing multicultural or racial issues. Ultimately, her goal is to help clients uncover the source of their distress so that they can begin to heal. See Colleen’s full bio.

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