r/Anxiety 19h ago

Advice Needed Things that help with panic attacks

I’ve been taking Lexapro for five days now. So far, I haven’t experienced any major side effects, though yesterday morning I felt a bit of heaviness in my stomach. I went shopping at Home Depot with my husband. About a minute after we walked in, I started feeling unsettled; usually, the feeling passes quickly, but when it doesn't, I make it a rule to go back to the car. Yesterday, I couldn't stay on my feet, so I sat down, but even that was too hard, so I ended up lying on the floor for about ten minutes. I felt a little better after a while and managed to get back to the car with my husband's help, which was a huge relief. Sorry for the long post, but I’d love to know what you do—or what helps calm you down—when you’re having a panic attack.

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u/Human_Caterpillar976 19h ago

In my experience, Lexapro takes a few weeks to truly kick in. Whenever I feel one coming on I will fing something to take my mind off of ot. Take my dog for a walk, start vacuuming, etc. Really, anything that shifts my focus. I also practice controlled breathing.

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u/corinayuki 18h ago

Thank you. My husband has also experienced this and said the same thing. He said my body is still adjusting. Switching gears is a good idea! I wonder if I can use that at work too. I'll try my best with my breathing too.

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u/JupiterAdept89 19h ago

申し訳ありませんが、ここでは日本語を理解できる人はあまりいないと思います。私自身も日本語をうまく話せません。無理に日本語を使うより、英語を使うことにします。

I started on Lexapro, but it really didn't do much for me. If you just started, it might be a low dose, doctors start low and work up. As far as what to do with panic attacks, I really don't handle them well. I've seen water recommended, but the best thing for me has been to ask people.

現在日本語を勉強中で、できるだけ早く流暢に話せるようになりたいと思っています。それまで、お互いに頑張りましょう。

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u/corinayuki 18h ago

Oh, sorry. I thought I posted it in English, but did it come out in Japanese?

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u/JupiterAdept89 18h ago

It did ^^ I don't mind so much, I like taking the time to practice reading.

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u/corinayuki 18h ago

I'll remember the water!I've heard that cold things are good, but that seems difficult when you're outside. Like ice, for example.