Pre-exam panic
Question
A while ago I started to suffer from panic attacks. I managed to control them and haven't had any for at least six months. I'm now doing my exams and over the past few days I've been able to feel my heart beating really quickly, my chest's felt tight and I've been nauseous, dizzy and my stomach's been uncomfortable.
Are these all just symptoms of stress? It doesn't feel like the panic attacks I used to have so is it just nothing at all? I just want to know if I should go and get myself checked out.
Answer
Please do not feel you have to be cope with these kinds of issues on your own; help is available.
Everyone feels anxious some of the time, especially when stressful things are happening, such as the pressure of studying and exams. Or there may be other underlying issues triggering these feelings.
Anxiety can be extremely overwhelming and effects people in a variety of ways, both physically and mentally. Anxiety attacks (panic attacks) can be very frightening and, even following recovery, it is perfectly natural to feel shocked, embarrassed and upset. Please be reassured, there are ways to manage and overcoming anxiety. You might want to consider taking a look at the First Steps website. They offer sources of help, including telephone counselling, support groups and a helpline, available on 0845 120 2916.
You can also go and see your local doctor (GP). They will be able to assess your situation and talk through the concerns you have about whether the nausea, dizziness and uncomfortable stomach are being triggered by psychological or physical factors.
You may like to know complementary therapies, such as reflexology and reiki, can provide many benefits in regards to relieving stress.
Sometimes opening up to family and friends about how you feel can help too. It is understandable that some people prefer to keep things from those they are close to for fear of upsetting them. But often, when people know the situation, they are able to gain greater understanding and offer help and support.
Or maybe you would prefer talking to someone you don't know on the phone. SANELINE is a national mental health helpline offering confidential emotional support and information to anyone experiencing mental health problems. They will be able to give you the time and space to talk about how you are feeling about your anxiety without judging you or telling you what to do. If you feel this could help, you could call them on 0845 767 8000.
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Question answered by SANE
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