subject: Anxiety and Panic Support Groups [print this page] Author: Emma Hudson Author: Emma Hudson
If you suffer from panic attacks and anxiety disorders, despair is probably an emotion familiar to you. Why is it that everyone else is out there enjoying life while you live in fear and doubt? There are two things you dont realize. The first is that even the apparently carefree have doubts and fears too. And secondly, there are millions of people in the same situation as you are. One of the worst things about having problems is the feeling that you are the only one who has them. The feeling that you are just not clever enough or capable of making the right decisions leaves you lonely and alienated. It erodes the feeling of being in control of your life and this theme is central in the development of panic and anxiety disorders. What better way to understand what you are going through than by communicating with others who are going through the same thing? What better way to start taking back control of your life than by asking questions and getting emotional and practical support? What works for one person doesnt always work for another but information is power and power is good. There are many panic and anxiety support groups. Some are in your local neighborhood and others are available online. The second has the advantage of being totally anonymous if that is what you prefer. There are no risks as you can admit to any number of insecurities and no-one will know who you are. Browse a number of sites and read some of the entries. Find the one you feel most comfortable with or that seems to have the support you are looking for. The relationship you establish with other members will surprise you. You may prefer a more personal approach in which case ask your doctor or enquire at the local health center for recommendations. Look up anxiety support groups in the phone book to find the closest ones. Call first and ask if you can drop by and observe what happens during the meetings. Visit them a few times to find the one you feel is best for you as the group dynamics are different for each meeting. Its important that you are made to feel welcome from the outset as if you feel intimidated in any way, then youre not going to get the support you need. You should also ask whether there is a fee to join and decide whether you are willing to pay or would prefer a non-paying group. By joining a support group, you are taking the first step in regaining control of your life. There are millions who dont take that step but suffer in silence. Panic and anxiety disorders are curable. It may not be easy at first because change never is but with the right support, it does get easierAbout the Author:
