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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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Here is another article on panic attacks self help that you may find useful

You´re terrified that any minute your next panic attack will strike. These worries consume your day, completing tasks is difficult, going new places almost impossible. What will trigger your next panic attack and how can you avoid it?

These questions consume your thoughts and influence your actions. Walking around plagued by these thoughts can be extremely disconcerting but it is what passes through the minds of many panic attack sufferers. 

Such overwhelming feelings and fears can make completing even simple daily tasks a challenge.  Suddenly we become forgetful, distracted, unfocused. Since you are so worried about having a panic attack, your levels of anxiety are so high that you are probably suffering from generalized anxiety as well or even agoraphobia. 

Driving a car, going to a new place, performing your responsibilities at work or at home can suddenly take on epic quality. Some people become so terrified of the unfamiliar and its potential to trigger a panic attack that they refuse to leave their safe zone or places they are familiar with. 

These people have developed agoraphobia and if this situation describes you, take comfort, you´re not alone and you can do something about it.

Whatever your present state of panic, anxiety or agitation, you can manage and eliminate your panic attacks as well as your resulting fear, anxiety or agoraphobia. There are important proactive steps that can get you started now on the road to a panic free life.

Imagine living your life free from the worry over your next impending panic attack, free from the anxiety that accompanies these feelings and free from the fear that seems so overwhelming. 

You can deal with you panic attacks and eliminate your anxiety as long as you are willing to try some panic attack management techniques. The most important step in eliminating your panic attacks is to end your fear of having panic attacks. 

This is probably not the first step in your journey to panic attack elimination, it may even be your last. But by getting rid of the anticipatory fear of your next panic attack, it will greatly reduce your likelihood of having one. 

This means you confront anxiety provoking situations head on because this eliminates the need to worry about them. It is the anxious thoughts coursing through your mind that trigger your panic attacks. You have to jump into the storm to get over your fear of the storm. 

There are many techniques that you can use to help build your confidence to the point where you are able to confront and eliminate your fear.

• An exercise program and proper diet are a first step. 

• Learning abdominal breathing exercises and meditation or yoga are important relaxation techniques to help you cope.

• Training your mind to see the good in things rather than the bad and creating positive affirmations for yourself that help you have the self confidence to confront uncertain situations are other important strategies. 

By building up your self confidence, strengthening your self esteem and providing you with techniques to manage your anxiety you will have the courage to confront and eliminate your panic attacks.

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Only a few people experiences panic attacks within their lifetime. In fact, only about 5% experience it, according to some researches.

Anxiety attacks and panic attacks are likely to be experienced by only a few people in the span of their lives. But the fact is, several people are experiencing serious panic attacks, pointing to a serious panic disorder.

What’s all about panic attacks?

Basically, the definition of a panic attack is fight and flight responses that occurs totally out of context. Also, having a panic attack makes you experience sudden feelings of terror or fear, at no apparent reasons available. In addition, panic attacks may strike at unexpected places, even when asleep for instance.

Meanwhile, anxiety attacks panic attacks make people feel that they are having a heart attack and even dying. People affected by such panic disorder tell people that they may be afraid, for they are already “going crazy.” This situation makes them act that they must get out of this very difficult situation.

Panic attack symptoms

Whenever you experience panic attacks, it is important that you know the symptoms. Here are the most common of them:

The seriousness of panic attacks

These kinds of attacks actually are a serious medical condition, although it is true that it may seem harmless at first. Actually, these attacks affect proper decision making and emotions in a very adverse way.

The random pattern of which panic attacks makes it more dangerous. More often than not, these are very sudden and panic attacks, which may even cause disabling. It is a very serious matter when an attack is experienced while driving, shopping or in the presence of public places, wherein that person has no recourse but to flee. Affected persons then would try their best to avoid such situations. Also, panic attacks when experienced by children, leads to disastrous effects. Low grades, substance abuse and anxiety and depression among other things may be experienced by the effected child.

Probable causes of panic attacks

Inheritance is seen by some researches as one probable cause of panic attacks. Also, these attacks may be in fact learned responses, which affects even the most mentally and physically healthy persons. Histories of physical and sexual abuse, death and childbirth, all these things can also be probable causes of panic attacks, considering the stress that it brings.

Self-care is possible

Whenever you encounter cases of panic attacks, remember that it is possible for it to be cared at home. The following steps may help you greatly when you want to stop panic attacks:

One major risk of self care is mistaking a serious illness, like heart attack. It is still wise to seek professional help on this matter.

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You are in a crowded store with a basket full of shopping. Suddenly you become aware of a slight dizzy feeling and your heart starts beating a bit harder and faster. You realise you are sweating slightly and your breathing has become a bit faster. There is a knot in your stomach and a strong feeling that lots of other shoppers are looking at you. Your heart gets even faster and the breathing does too until you feel lightheaded. It feels like the walls are closing in and you really have to get out of there fast. Sound familiar? If so it may be that you have had panic attacks. When panic attacks become frequent and the worry or anxiety of about having them starts to interfere with normal life, then you may have panic disorder. Here are three trusted methods of self help for panic disorder.

*Avoid caffeine and smoking

Caffeine, which is found in coffee, tea, cola drinks and dark chocolate, among other things, is a stimulant, as is nicotine. They can interfere with the brain’s natural tranquilizers and cause insomnia, and can also makes the heart beat faster. As increased heart rate and palpitations are symptoms of a panic attack, it is easy to see that avoidance of these products could be a very simple but effective form of self help for panic disorders.

*Breathing exercises

During a panic attack the breathing becomes fast and shallow, and this is called hyperventilation. This leads to some of the other symptoms that are experienced such as tingling and lightheadedness. If you can teach yourself deep breathing and try to force yourself to do it during an attack, it will reduce the severity of the panic attack. Breathing into a paper bag can help too (yes, really!)

*Relaxation techniques

Meditation and yoga help the sufferer to envisage stressful situations in the mind’s eye under controlled conditions and imagine a relaxed and happy outcome. This sort of technique can improve self-awareness and self-confidence.

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Melissa remembers her first panic attack like it was yesterday. She was coming home from work as usual on the 5:32 train. She was reviewing her to do list for the weekend and thinking about a presentation she had to give at work on Monday. 

While her obligations were many, going to her daughter´s play, arranging catering for her husband´s birthday the following weekend, making baked goods for the school bazaar and getting this work presentation done that cropped up at the last minute, they were no more than usual. She decided to pick up some food for dinner on the way home and went to the supermarket.     

She put her purse in the cart and started wheeling around the grocery store. She went to the meat counter first to see what was available and what looked good.  Suddenly her heart started racing and she felt weak in the knees. She steadied herself and tried to shake the feeling but terror struck her.

Was she going to die on top of the meat? What would happen to her children?  Where was her husband?  Would he marry someone else? She grabbed at her scarf and removed it; she tried breathing but heard only wheezing. She saw people looking at her and tried to act normal but the inability to breathe was too much. She took her purse and ran out of the store, pulling at her shirt, trying to ease the pressure in her chest. 

As soon as the cool night air hit her she felt better. She started to breath, walked a little to get the circulation going. Then she sat down on the bench outside. Someone came up to her and asked her if she was okay. She simply nodded, still unable to speak. She looked down at herself after a few minutes. She was soaked with sweat and her blouse was ripped open at the chest, her bra was showing.

What had happened and why? This thought would continue to plague Melissa in the coming months as her hesitation, fear and uncertainty mounted.   

Melissa missed the school bazaar, missed her daughter´s play, called in sick on Monday for her presentation and made up an excuse to cancel her husband´s birthday party.

This was the beginning of Melissa´s agoraphobia and the fear that dominated her life from the time she had her panic attack in the supermarket standing over the Idaho potatoes. This fear led to the alienation of her husband and children and the loss of her job and self-esteem. 

Six months after this first panic attack, Melissa´s life was unrecognizable. Melissa was unemployed, living separate from her children and in divorce proceedings from the love of her life of 15 years. Just six months ago, her life had been a picture of success and happiness. She had a great job she loved, two great children who were clever and angelic and a husband who was the light of her life and her high school sweetheart. She had a beautiful home and tons of friends and was active in a number of organizations, including the PTA.

Today, Melissa is afraid to venture too far from her home, she won´t ride the train into the city, she can´t go to crowded places and feels stressed, anxious and worried all the time. Her husband tried to help her but she pushed him away. Her children tried to be understanding but they didn´t understand. Her friends tried to be supportive but she didn´t want their support. 

While this case may be extreme, it shows how agoraphobia can start small, you miss just a couple of events, you make just a couple of excuses but the inertia of avoidance can snowball very quickly into severely damaging your life. While there are varying degrees of agoraphobia, they all have the potential to be severely life limiting and should be addressed as quickly as possible. 

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