Worries, Fears and Anxiety Disorders / Question
Published: July 17, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I've started getting panic attacks because I have so many fears. When I was younger, I had a flu that resulted in fainting; so now I have an insane fear of throwing up or fainting. I used to be terrified of escalators because I feel down one when I was little, but now escalators and stairs are the only way for me because of my fear of elevators. The first time I noticed it was when I was visiting my aunt in the hospital a few years ago. She just had a baby and we were going to visit her. I was already nervous, but the elevator shook which made me more nervous. I've gotten on elevators since, but I've always held myself tightly against the back wall. Usually I am fine, but last week I wasn't. It was only four floors, but it made a stop three floors up and all of a sudden I NEEDED OFF. We finally got to the top, and I was sweating, shaking and feeling like I was going to faint. I was on a museum tour, and there was no way I was could sit down and get some air. I am going on a trip in April and am afraid of this happening to me again. It is an indoor arena, so there goes my hope for air. I also get pretty hot, so I try not to overdress. I feel like such a basket case. I don't want to go on pills, but I really need help with how to get over this when this happens.
Signed: Need Help With Panic Attacks
Dear Need Help With Panic Attacks,
It is normal to occasionally feel nervous or apprehensive, but when those feelings get in the way of your daily functioning, it is time to take a look at what is going on. It sounds like you have already identified what triggers these attacks, so now it may be a good idea to reach out to a mental health professional to get some help.
While you mention that you aren't interested in taking pills, it is important to know that medication with counseling can alleviate the symptoms that you describe. There are several medications that work well with panic attacks and are not habit forming. Panic attacks and anxiety can be crippling to your life, and without help, can prevent you from taking pleasure in activities such as museums, concerts and sporting events. It probably would be more enjoyable if you could visit these places without having to worry about elevators or escalators.
Learning relaxation techniques can also be very helpful. See I.M. Stressed for some ideas. In the meantime, if you feel as if you are going to faint, try to sit down and put your head between your legs taking slow breaths. If you would like more information on panic attacks see Worry Too Much .
If you live in the Northern New Jersey area and need a therapist you can contact the ACCESS Center of Atlantic Behavioral Health at 1-888-247-1400 and speak with a mental health professional.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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