As I read through these posts it’s almost comforting in a sense. Not because people are struggling or uncomfortable, but because it validates that anxiety can be a very real and scary thing for everyone including everyday people. (People that works, have social lives, hobbies, loving people around). I am not saying this to exclude this form people with mental illness the prevents them from living a somewhat normal life, I am just able to relate to a lot of these posts from people that are having panic unannounced. 

Cannabis induced panic (triggering panic from days to years)
Having somatic fears (heart rate and breathing fear and focus) 
Feeling of deep fear or dread because of panic. 
Physical symptoms (sweaty hands, numb face)

I post this to say, you are not alone. Mental illness is scary and there are many ways to deal with it, just be proactive to making yourself better; Medication, exercise, psychotherapy, bloodwork…. Don’t live uncomfortable and let it debilitate you. 

I have had GAD most of my life. A stressful event happened in late teens that left me fearful and in a state of panic for several years a. I didn’t really know what anxiety was until this. I was convinced something was physically wrong with me. I had blood drawn, cardiologist visits, ultrasounds…. Everything was fine. 

I somewhat managed the panic and lived with general anxiety for almost a decade self medicating daily with cannabis and alcohol. Did well at work, was promoted multiple times, great social life surrounded with friends, family, and travel, and functioned somewhat normal at least to the people around me. 

I just recently accepted a new position within my company…. Weeks later, feeling full blown panic, dizzy, heart racing.. just as I remembered as a late teen early 20s.

I started Buspar reluctantly. (Always felt weak or scared of the end result with medication 2 days in and the real terror and panic had subsided. Still a long road to go, but YOU ARE NOT ALONE.