I went to a restaurant with some family a few weeks ago and ended up having such a huge panic attack that I hid in the toilets for the majority of the meal. I don't like to cause a scene and any kind of acknowledgement of a panic attack for me makes it much worse. So I just told the family that the food upset my stomach. 

I've had GAD for like 12 years now so I know I avoid certain places and situations if I have had a panic attack there before. So after being on my meds for about 5 weeks I thought it was time to try some exposure therapy. We booked the same restaurant and went to eat there....

I had a lovely meal, didn't have any panic throughout and really enjoyed the experience. Its a relief, and although it was terrifying to even go to the restaurant again, it's proof that I can do it. It's also a reminder that I will never come off my meds again, and that's it's okay if I need them to function, it's just like an iron deficiency.

I know it sounds so small, just to go to a restaurant, but if anyone would understand how great of an achievement that is, it would be you guys!