The feeling of helplessness associated with panic attacks is awful for anyone who suffers.
Your rational mind knows that it "should" be controllable but there is something internally that overrides this rationality.
By the same token, those who have not been there may think you are overreacting or perhaps being a drama queen.
This does not help you to come to terms with your condition and in fact may worsen your anxiety.
If you feel that you are being scorned you may become more reclusive for fear of being embarrassed in public.
You may even resort to ordering your groceries online to avoid a public situation.
It can completely change your life and even bring it to a virtual standstill.
No holidays, no dinners out, no walks in the park or trips to the beach.
If you have a very close friend or supportive family please try to talk to them.
You may be surprised at their reaction.
If they know you well they will be expecting it, they just know that you first need to decide to take action in your own time rather than forcing you to seek help.
You have to be ready to face the reality of your condition head on and hopefully restore a good balance to your lifestyle.
It is one of the hardest things to do.
Firstly admitting that you have a mental health issue and then confronting it and telling somebody else.
On the positive side, once you're over this step it gets a whole lot easier and even this unburdening can actually feel like a weight has been lifted.
Yes, really, you may find that you are able to take a deep breath and feel physically a little more relaxed.
I did.