Fearing Anxiety or A Panic Attack? Not Today!

I fear...

• pain
• lost
• failure
• not "making it"
• hopelessness
• my well-being
• other's well-being
• my reputation
• my career
• my health
• anxiety
• a panic attack, etc.

Fear seems to be the root of all evil, and for those who live with a type of anxiety disorder, that it's Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder (PD), Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Separation Anxiety Disorder or a specific phobia, all imply to be reunited under the umbrella of fear.

If we look closely at the word "fear" we are able to comprehend why our bodies react the way they do:

Fear
[ fir ]
noun
— a distressing emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, pain, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined.

Now let's look at its antonyms:

Antonyms:
— courage, security, calm, intrepidity, assurance, calmness, cheer, confidence, contentment, ease, faith, happiness, joy, trust, comfort, liking, love, bravery, courage, fearlessness, heroism, unconcern.

The reason for this close-up is to carefully examine the two extremes: the effect it has on us, and what we can do to help prevent this unwanted feeling. Whether the fear we have is real or imaginary, the effects are very much the same.

When we think of an event that took place or a future scenario which cause us negative emotions or feelings, it may accelerate into a stronger emotion such as fear, even though it is not actually happening. This fear is only imaginary -- it is NOT real, only it "feels" like it is.

As we know fear is subsequent to some kind of real life events or lived experiences, however we can be left reassured that fear is not a manifestation forthcoming the event or experience itself, but a manifestation within our minds.

There are a number of reasons for one to be afraid of, and of course those depend on each and one of us as we all have walked different paths. For example, personally I fear of public speaking and heights. I find that my anxiety is easily triggered when I'm about to speak in front of multiple people, (e.g., at a meeting) v.s one on one. Also, my fear of heights seems to obstruct my ability to enjoy a nice sunny day on my balcony from the 11th floor. These may be common but not for everyone. So what now, should I continue "live in fear" or is there something I can do to get over these?

Here is something I'd like to share with you which has helped me tremendously when in a fearful situation:

Firstly, fear, when recognized, can then be controlled. It's when we don't know what's happening to us that we continue to fear, and for the majority of us there are no apparent reasons behind it. The magical revolution of knowing about our fears, and most importantly accepting them for what they are and showing themselves to us, can make the entire difference when we're in a panicky mode.

Secondly, the moment that fear decides to show itself, that it's due to an obvious situation where we would normally be fearful, or while completing a daily task, fear is an emotion, just like any other, which can be controlled or avoided, bottom line -- fear is in our heads.

Finally, here are a few tricks (memos and self-talks) that perhaps can also be helpful to you:

Fear of heights

If you are grounded you are very much safe, and you won't go nowhere! There is nothing to fear about, in fact let go of that fear and trust. There is absolutely nothing else to do, but trust.

Social phobia or fear of public speaking

You are who you are and no one else has a say in it. As long as you are comfortable and accept yourself for who you've become or who you will become, your only duty is to be that person. Detach yourself from other's options, thoughts and judgments of you, because they don't define you, they define them. So don't over think or analyse anything -- just express yourself with respect, confidence and freedom.

Fear of anxiety

Oh dear anxiety, how I wish I never met you. Though, I am happy that you were able to give me a better understanding of myself, my insecurities, my fears, and my emotional behaviours. I now know, because of you, that I was doing it all wrong. However, today I choose not to make you a part of me anymore (my fears), and unconditionally and with all due respect, you are dismissed -- as if you were never here. Now moving on without you. Take Care.

Fear of a panic attack

These can be tricky, as they come and go and sometimes with no warnings. A panic attacks happens when our body feels as if it's in danger, and it reacts by producing a burst of adrenaline as a force to protect itself in case of danger (I'd like to emphases on the "in case"), just like it would in a real moment of danger. In fact, constantly "living in fear" has to come with some kind of side effect. But know that there is no "real" danger. By fearing our anxiety or another panic attack, the only thing this is actually doing is giving them our attention, and so they will respond by coming back. We should NOT let them "unreal fears" take over our majestic powerful and dominating minds. What we can do in a moment of fear (especially when alone in panic) is to remain silent, try to reassure and calm ourselves down, acknowledge that our body is responding only accordingly, not to think of why and instead just acknowledge, close our eyes (at least try if you can), find that inner peace that lies beneath the pain, feel the nothingness that can be found. and slowly let the pain find its way out. We should always stay focused and not let go until we feel calm and completely reassured. Then, move on with your day knowing you just defeated a panic attack, and well aware that you are in control. A panic attack doesn't have to last for hours, or not even for 5 minutes. The length of a panic attack will depend on us, and our surrounding, of course.

Conclusion

Know that these specific fears (whatever they may be) are only a manifestation of the mind, and for that being said there are actually no real reasons to fear. The more we commit to our fear the more likely it will pursuit, yet the quicker we put our attention away from it and focus on peacefulness or nothingness that actually exists, the quicker we will reconnect with ourselves, and realize that we are in control.

The fear of living with anxiety or yet to live another panic attack is a fear within itself, and it's powerful enough to keep us in fear for a long time. However, the power of the mind is significantly stronger than any fear, and practicing techniques such as this one is an art -- the art of mindfulness.

We've got this -- we ARE in control! Fear? Bring it on! We can handle you!

Namaste

Source
Image credit

MOAIS

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