I (f22) had a panic attack last week. I didn’t know what was happening, I thought maybe my asthma had come back and it was an asthma attack or some kind of heart problem. My mother rushed me to the doctor and I was told that it was a panic attack. After I calmed down the doctor asked me about myself a bit. I told her that I’ve always been suspicious that I may have an anxiety disorder or that I am a much more anxious person than other people are. I get nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. I get met with overwhelming feelings of dread sometimes. Usually it’s not a direct result of something happening. It feels random. My doctor has prescribed lexapro and counselling. She thinks I have some unresolved issues and that I will learn to cope with them with some counselling but for now she wants me medicated. I’m torn because my parents do not want me to take the medication. My mother thinks that I should find a natural remedy before I start taking something that could have such a big affect on my body. I’m doing a masters and applying for PhD’s around the country and my parents don’t want me changing my lifestyle at such a crucial stage of my education. Should I get a second opinion? Is lexapro too strong for someone who’s only had one panic attack? (I think I may have suppressed others in the past without realising it). All this decision making is giving me more anxiety and I just don’t know what to do.