Panic Attacks and Anxiety: Adios! to Derealization and Depersonalization
By Mark B
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For those who’ve read my previous article, Panic Attacks and Anxiety: Derealization and Depersonalization - You Aren’t Going Crazy!, this is the perfect follow-up scoop. But if you’ve yet to read it, not to worry, there’s still much to be learned here.
Now, in review, derealization and depersonalization all too often accompany panic attacks and anxiety. In general terms, derealization is a frightening feeling of detachment from one’s external environment, and depersonalization is an equally as frightening sense of detachment from self. Both can be absolutely crippling and take you to the turnstiles of your perception of insanity.
I believe many researchers and theorists would concur that within the context of panic and anxiety, derealization and depersonalization may well be the mind’s self-protective reaction to the ultimate perceived state of overload. See, it goes like this – when the mind feels it’s mega-overwhelmed it flips the switch on a perceptual filter, believing even the slightest additional bit of in-coming stimuli may lead to various degrees of psychic meltdown. Within this theoretical framework, it’s all about the mind in a powerful state of defense, doing all it can to give itself a fighting chance to sort and process that with which it’s already wrestling. So it only makes sense that it tries to survive by inhibiting and prohibiting fresh sensory messages streaming in from one’s immediate internal and external experience. And the resultant mind states are dominated by derealization and depersonalization.
Now, as we approach delivering a knockout punch to derealization and depersonalization it’s important to always keep in mind that, as I said in the previous paragraph, both of these sensations are born of the mind’s effort to protect itself. And the very cool thing about this notion is it leads us to the unique understanding that the mind has – well – a personality of its own. Furthermore, this personality is all too often negatively impacted by the mind being overwhelmed and in great mental and emotional pain. To me, this brings to the fore a “personality of mind,” giving the hellish protection-generated sensations of derealization and depersonalization rather a bit of softness and gentleness, making them seem so much less treacherous. I mean, it’s like the mind is this living, feeling being that actively communicates with us, so often asking for help. And we, in turn, have the opportunity to provide compassion and relief.
Alrighty then – so let’s move on to what one can do to make these horrifying, but now familiar and much less terrifying, phenomena go bye-bye. First of all, if one is willing to accept derealization and depersonalization as mind-protecting phenomena, it only stands to reason that their appearance – more importantly, disappearance – will be greatly influenced by our ability to maintain balanced and tolerable loads in our mental/emotional wheel barrel. And this is accomplished by stress management, which is so often driven by how we monitor and adjust our processes of thought. Now, of course, in many cases high levels of stress, and resultant anxiety, can’t be avoided – that’s just life. But we still hold the ability to manage their intensity and fallout by keeping tabs on how we think and subsequently react. It’s a matter of maintaining enlightened perspective and calm as our reasoned powers of interpretation have time to take the stage after the panic alarms have sounded.
Allow me to reiterate, there’s no doubt that the best first strategy to keep derealization and depersonalization at bay is to do all we can to maintain management over our stress and anxiety levels. Whether it’s through relaxation, visualization, diet, guided imagery, exercise, job or school change, relationship change, lifestyle change, therapy – or my techniques of interpreaction, interpreversal, S.A.I.L., S.P.A., I.A.M. not F.E.A.R. – whatever – we must do what it takes to stay self-managed on a day-in and day-out basis. If we do this, not only will we be able to keep derealization and depersonalization at arm’s length, but should they strike and the alarms sound, we’ll be able to cruise our way past any exaggerated and inappropriate reactions. See – it’s our misinterpretations and overreactions that cause the problems, not derealization and depersonalization. How ‘bout that thought?
And as we’re approaching all of this, let’s not dismiss the concept of the mind having a personality and its expression of its need for “some love” through the frightening sensations of derealization and depersonalization. To me, as we accept this seemingly strange notion we apply a very soothing balm upon a potentially fevered mind. And this very much relates to the concept of mindfulness – a clear-minded, in-the-present-moment, self-observational technique that emphasizes viewing self as an outside observer – without criticism or judgment.
Okay – but let’s say in spite of our self-management efforts, derealization or depersonalization make a surprise visit. Ya’ ready? First and foremost – just stop whatever it is you’re doing. If you’re driving, pull over when you can. If you’re in a meeting, take a break. Heck – take a walk, if you’d like. Now, take a few full abdominal breaths, and as you take them immediately tell yourself that the one and only thing happening right now is your mind telling you it’s operating on overload and needs a little help. It’s talking with you, and that’s pretty cool. Nothing dangerous, without a reason, or permanent is happening to you. And since you know what’s going on, and why, take some time to communicate with your mind, letting it know you’re there for it and will do whatever it takes to provide aid and comfort. Visualize your mind as if you’re looking at it from outside of your physical self (a healthy “out-of-body” experience). And as you do, visualize your mind very nicely calming down. Simply open yourself to a spirit of insight and reason, as you employ relaxation techniques, guided imagery, visualization, the strategies I’ve mentioned before, or anything that’s worked for you in the past. And as you’re keeping yourself together, know that as soon as you get your sea-legs back, moving on with your day is the next order of business. It’s this thinking and believing that keeps the alarm from increasing in decibels, and keeps it from sounding in the future.
Yes – it’s this mindset, along with a few victories, that will enable you to function in the presence of derealization and depersonalization, allowing you to explore these uncomfortable states, accumulating insight along the way. And I’m betting you’ll find that this philosophy, as well as time-proven strategies and techniques, will keep these icky sensations at bay – period. It’s all about making peace with derealization and depersonalization - indeed, making the best of an initially perceived unpleasant situation. I mean, who knows what kind of inner secrets could be unveiled upon exploration of our altered states of perception and consciousness. And I’ll tell you this – establishing a level of insight and comfort with a nemesis is a great way to remove any potential threat. But, make sure you identify the true nemesis. In this case, it’s not derealization and depersonalization, rather our misinterpretation and overreaction to a foreign perceptual experience.
From tons of experience I can tell you that you must ride out episodes of derealization and depersonalization. As was said earlier, if and when they pop onto the scene, acknowledge they’re there and calmly tell yourself they’re not a permanent state of consciousness and will shortly pass – that is if you stay cool. Remind yourself that your mind is overloaded and it’s talking with you, asking for a little help. And do a friend a favor. Just use any intervention strategy and technique you’ve come across, including those presented in my book, and go on about your business and your day, as no one will have a clue as to what you’re going through. I’ll go you one better. I’m challenging you to welcome derealization and depersonalization as they arrive, and dive right in to some intrapersonal exploration in their presence. Wouldn’t that be an interesting twist? And how disarming would it be to the all out dread and fear these sensations traditionally generate.
Ah – the mysteries and miseries of derealization and depersonalization. Nothing with which we can’t peacefully coexist. Go get ‘em, tiger!
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Self-Help for Panic Attacks – Cure Them Now
By Mark B
Here is another article on panic attacks self help that you may find useful
Reduce Your Frenzied Attack Complaints Recurring panic convulsion are the evident features of panic convulsion. Panic attacks are unexpected and intense feelings of threat, fear or concern without the sign of actual danger. The symptoms of a panic attack commonly happen suddenly, culminate within 10 minutes and then recede. Nevertheless, some fits may last longer or may take place in continuity, making it challenging to find when one attack ceases and another starts . But, there are some steps you can choose that may hold back a panic attack from intensifying out-of-control and subdue your comprehensive concern. Practice Conscious inhaling Usually individuals are not really self-conscious about the way they are inhaling, but when people are anxious they incline to inhale fast, light breaths that come straight from the lungs. This symptom of respiration is diagonized thoracic or chest breathing. Chest breathing causes an overturn in the oxygen and carbon dioxide values in the body, ensuing in increased pulse rate, giddiness, muscle tension and other physical sensations. Learn Progressive Muscle Relaxation Progressive muscle loosening (PMR) is a stress and anxiety management . If you have panic disorder, agoraphobia or some other type of anxiety disorder, you may get frequent muscle tension. In Point Of Fact, regular muscle tension may be so involuntary that it seems natural, and you may not realize what it experiences like when your muscular tissues are totally slackened. By engaging the progressive muscle relaxation technique, you will be conditioned to promptly rediscover the differences between relaxation method and tenseness of various muscle groups. Use a Self-Modification Curriculum Self motivation programmes focus on helping people handle discarded or dysfunctional behavioral responses when dealing with their problems. For example, if you have panic attacks as a result of panic disorder, a common abnormal behavioral response is dodging. Unfortunately, keeping off negative situations does not help in your recovery from PD. Use a Panic Diary If you suffer panic disorder or agoraphobia, a panic diary may help you to realize your panic symptom triggers and your reactions to anxiety-provoking periods. It is normally best to record in your panic diary as you are experiencing (or shortly thereafter) pre-existing anxiety or a panic approach. Discipline Your Coping Techniques If you have panic disorderliness, agoraphobia or other anxiety disorder, anxiety -provoking attacks may come on a regularly. Enhancing and rectifying your resisting techniques can help you deal with them.
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Don’t Forfeit Your Life To Anxiety And Panic Attacks! A Unique And Panic Disorder Treatment?
By Mark B
Here is another article on panic attacks self help that you may find useful
Suffering from panic attacks can be a truly terrifying experience. The fact is a panic attack can strike anywhere and anytime. Anxiety attacks can occur in seemingly tame and safe environments which can be the most devastating. In this article I’ll be covering symptoms and effective panic disorder treatment.Have you ever needed to go to a social engagement but couldn’t leave the house due to an anxiety attack? Or worse yet be in a social setting and be struck by a gut wrenching panic attack? Sometimes your feelings can be so confusing in these moments as the your mind and body are frozen with anxietyThe conflict: We’re typically really excited to attend out social event. There may be friends or family there or maybe even a hot date. Maybe we’ve been looking forward to this event for weeks or even months but the thought of panic and anxiety never leaves our consciousness.It’s happened before, it’s time to leave and you can’t step through that door. Panic and fear have gripped you and won’t let you leave. You end up embarrassed and call with some lame excuse as to why you couldn’t make it. Now you’ve missed the event and suffered yet another panic attack. Panic attack sufferers can relate to the following symptoms all to well. Anxiety attacks can include; feeling faint, nausea, dizziness, blurry vision, pounding heart, sweaty palms, and fatigue. You may also feel paranoid or intense fear for no logical reason.So can I find an effective panic disorder treatment that will work for me? The answer is YES without a doubt! Of the many treatments available the most widely used are; drugs, psycho therapy, and self help treatment programs. Be aware that some of these have major side effects and are extremely expensive.Drug therapy has the advantage of relatively quick relief if you find the drug that interacts well with your body chemistry. Finding the right drug can be a time consuming and expensive challenge. Side effects from these drugs can often times be nearly as debilitating as the panic attacks they purport to treat. Also, cost can become astronomical as you’re signing on to take the drug for the rest of your life.Psychotherapy can be expensive but can be effective in treating panic disorder if you happen to find a therapist that you can connect with. Finding a therapist that you can trust and relate to can be time consuming and costly. A good psychotherapist can run from $100 to over $300 per hour (session). Group therapy is a more cost effective option if you don’t mind airing your dirty laundry publicly.The final and extremely effective panic disorder treatment is self help programs. Don’t worry, with self help programs there’s no group therapy sessions to add unnecessary anxiety to your life. With a little dedication and determination you can work through effective treatment programs in the comfort and security of your own home. Effective programs follow the exact same treatment procedures as you would follow in a psychotherapy session.
If you’re ready to stop panic attacks now and take back your health forever then you NEED to see this effective panic disorder treatment. Don’t waste the rest of your life to panic attacks. Read the following page very carefully… if you’d like to cure panic attacks forever CLICK HERE!
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The Secret to Eliminate Anxiety and Panic Attacks
By Mark B
Here is another article on panic attacks self help that you may find useful
Anxiety sucks! That’s according to some individuals who have been experiencing it, particularly when it reaches to the extent that you cannot anymore handle your breathing easily. More often, anxiety attack comes with hot redness or shaky stretches. This sensitivity usually leads to aggravated pains, an indication of a panic situation. This anxiety panic attacks more in unexpected situation. The worst is-persons who are experiencing anxiety gradually foster feelings of helplessness. People with anxiety problems claimed that such intuition comes and go throughout the years, which means, this could happen to you repeatedly. Nonetheless, this can be prevented or can be totally eradicated if an efficient and powerful solution is complied.
Your time has come for you to be totally free from the rigorous orbit of panic and anxiety attacks. With Panic Away course, you can rejuvenate your normal and healthy life in the most efficient way. This Panic Away course was developed by Joe Barry. This impressive “how to stop anxiety attacks” techniques are based on the well-researched mental psychology and science. Mr. Barry himself was a former sufferer of panic attacks and habitual anxiety. Basically, Panic Away will educate persons with anxiety problems on how to breeze out of anxiety panic attacks, which means you can totally say goodbye to antiquated approaches in how to stop anxiety attacks. The only thing to do is for you to be disposed to ease out and evade from what has been worrying you for a long time.
The main idea of Panic Away program is that it revitalizes you to depart from fear of experiencing another panic attack. As panic attacks treatment, this technique will set you free from any form of medication, self-examination, lifestyle shift or physical exercises. However, in order to attain the effect of Panic way, you need first to eradicate the fear of having another anxiety attack. Typically, the initial precedent of a panic or anxiety attack leaves a strong impression on one’s inner self, which propagates a twist of anxiety. The program has a notable One move Technique which usher you to break free from the hoop of anxiety. This technique will help you shift mental activity away from the part of your brain where anxiety is originated.
The program’s technique is made simple. It offers effective solution unlike other self-help books and tips on anxiety complication and panic attacks, that claim effectiveness but actually offers nothing. To ensure the effectiveness of this technique, you have to eradicate first the fear of having another attack. Panic Away simply educates you to determine the root cause of everything.
Again, you have to eliminate first your fear, so you can step up to another level of positive side of things. Panic Away, in its truest sense will let you free from anything unwanted and irrelevant stuffs, which allow you to enjoy a lifetime privilege. The program is available in downloadable series, audio formats and presentations. This will ensure you to keep you away from terrible panic and anxiety attacks for the rest of your life.
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How Female Hormonal Changes Can Contribute to Anxiety and Panic Attacks
By Mark B
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Some women are more sensitive to hormonal fluctuations than others. For many women, anxiety issues appear for the first time during periods of hormonal change. For other women, hormonal changes intensify previously existing anxiety symptoms.
Anxiety is one of the most common symptoms of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome (PMS), post-childbirth, and perimenopause (the period of time before the onset of menopause). It may take the form of panic attacks, nervousness, sweating, intense fear, anxiety combined with depression, or other overwhelming symptoms.
Here are several periods of hormonal change that can intensify or trigger anxiety in women.
Puberty — Developing girls experience hormonal changes as they prepare to begin their reproductive years.
Monthly menstrual cycle — Often girls and women experience PMS the week before their period.
Following childbirth — The severe drop in certain hormones following childbirth can cause dramatic physical symptoms and a temporary feeling of depression or anxiety; in some women, it is prolonged.
Perimenopause — Perimenopause is the period of time when the body is approaching menopause. It may last from two to ten years. During this time the menstrual cycle becomes irregular as the hormone levels keep fluctuating, causing some women to experience PMS-like symptoms.
Although many of us may use the term “going through menopause” to describe this period of time, it is actually called perimenopause. Many women experience panic attacks for the first time during perimenopause. Other symptoms such as insomnia, hot flashes, rapid heartbeat, and sweating are also common.
With surgical menopause (hysterectomy), you’ll likely experience perimenopausal symptoms after the surgery, even if you did not experience symptoms prior to surgery. Symptoms can be prolonged and are due to the dramatic and sudden decrease of certain hormones as a result of the hysterectomy.
In non-surgical circumstances, menopause occurs after a woman has no periods for twelve consecutive months. It lasts only one day. Many women report feeling better than ever mentally and physically after menopause, due to the fact that hormone levels stabilize.
Hormonal Change Triggers the Fight Or Flight Response
Due to the fact that hormonal change causes physical and psychological stress, it triggers our “fight or flight” response. The fight or flight response is the body’s inborn, self-protective response to perceived danger.
When we perceive that we are under stress, our bodies send out a rush of cortisol, adrenaline, and other brain chemicals to prepare us to “fight” or “flee” the danger.
The fight or flight response triggers the physiological changes that we associate with anxiety, such as rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, sweating, muscle tension, narrowed mental focus, heightened emotion, and many other symptoms.
These are the same physical sensations that many women experience when their hormone levels fluctuate. In other words, most of the symptoms women experience during times of hormonal change are really fight or flight reactions. While these physical sensations are not dangerous, they can be very intense and overwhelming.
Our fight or flight response mechanism can become “hypersensitive” with the various hormonal changes in our bodies that take place from puberty to menopause. Many of us are in a constant state of stress due to our lifestyle and thought patterns, which also causes hypersensitivity.
In other words, our bodies may be stuck in the “on” switch of fight or flight. What normally wouldn’t trigger symptoms, now initiates symptoms and perpetuates an ongoing cycle.
Fight or flight reactions in and of themselves are harmless. However, when our thoughts convince our rational minds that these symptoms are scary and dangerous, we create an anxiety cycle.
Anxiety consists of more than fight or flight reactions acting by themselves. Unproductive thoughts play a critical role in creating and perpetuating the anxiety we experience.
Our thoughts convert fight or flight reactions into anxiety, and a self-perpetuating cycle begins. Soon we find ourselves limiting our behaviors because of anxiety as well, which further entrenches the vicious cycle.
When a person is under stress, unresolved emotions and issues commonly come to the forefront. Because hormonal change is a major stressor, it can bring up internal conflicts and self-doubt in many areas of our lives. All of a sudden, we may find that the negative self-talk that we successfully pushed to the background of our lives during less stressful times is now playing center stage.
During periods of hormonal change, we may also feel uncertain about our changing roles (e.g. maturing from girl to woman, becoming a mother, becoming a mature woman past childbearing years), which can add to our internal conflict.
When we fail to successfully resolve internal conflicts and the unhelpful thought patterns that contribute to them, we create a breeding ground for anxiety. Combined with fight or flight symptoms, it’s no wonder that these unproductive thoughts create and perpetuate the anxiety cycle!
What can you do if hormone-related anxiety affects you?
Here’s some great news! The same tools that you can use to overcome anxiety due to other reasons can help you to conquer anxiety related to hormonal changes too.
Research shows that cognitive-behavioral techniques that help you change unhelpful thoughts and behaviors, lifestyle changes, relaxation techniques, and nutritional strategies (all found in our Conquer Anxiety Success Program) can help women dealing with hormonal changes.
These types of strategies not only help women regain a sense of control over their lives, but actually achieve improved physical and emotional well being! Here are a few tips to get you started:
– Focus on reducing preventable stress in your life that triggers the fight or flight response — stop the yo-yo dieting; increase sleep to eight or nine hours a night; exercise regularly; don’t skip meals; cut back on your frantic schedule; and decrease stimulants, such as caffeine.
The body isn’t designed for constant stress. When we are bombarded with stress, our ability to cope can become overwhelmed because the elevation in stress hormones makes the fight or flight switch remain “on.”
– Learn how to train your body to respond differently to stress so that you can automatically turn the false alarm “off” when the fight or flight response is triggered. Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can help you achieve this goal.
– Most importantly, learn how to change how you think. Our thoughts are what convert the harmless fight or flight response into a vicious cycle of anxiety. Remember, just as our thoughts hold the key to creating anxiety, they also hold the key to eliminating it!
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December 11th, 2009
