Depression Forums

Depression Related Forums => Depression Central => Topic started by: solo on March 16, 2012, 02:17:04 AM

Title: What are panic attacks?
Post by: solo on March 16, 2012, 02:17:04 AM

Hi there

Can anyone tell me what a panic attack is?

I often burst into tears before I have to leave the house and the other week I went out for a meal with friends only to do a runner half way through the night. Are these episodes panic attacks?

Solo x

Title: Re: What are panic attacks?
Post by: Buttercup on March 16, 2012, 07:30:21 AM

I think panic attacks manifest themselves in different ways. When I have them, sadly frequently, I start hyperventilating and cry uncontrollably. Afterwards I feel totally exhausted and get an awful headache.

Title: Re: What are panic attacks?
Post by: Zaf on March 16, 2012, 08:39:29 AM

I feel terrified to do something or need to get out of somewhere urgently, my heart pounds and races, I can feel dizzy and I have a tight feeling in my chest

Title: Re: What are panic attacks?
Post by: Sweetpea on March 16, 2012, 10:08:20 AM

I have an urgent need to get away from a situation or place, I go hot dizzy racing heart beat and feel like I am going to pass out.

S x

Title: Re: What are panic attacks?
Post by: Desperado99 on March 16, 2012, 11:52:40 AM

Panic attacks are different things to different people.

When I'm inside (like shops or meetings) I have an urgent 'I need to get OUT' feeling. I also get really hot/sweaty and feel dizzy/faint like I'm going to pass out, but since my therapist told me that I can't pass out from a panic attack (cos your blood pressures too high) I tend to be able to talk myself out of the situation.

Title: Re: What are panic attacks?
Post by: solo on March 19, 2012, 12:34:00 AM

Thanks for your replies everyone  :)