Anxiety or panic symptoms can be severe enough to interfere with a woman’s daily life. She may feel excessively nervous or shaky or overwhelmed by tasks that were easily done in the past. The feelings of panic can become so overpowering that she may feel like she is having a “nervous breakdown” or even feel like she is dying.
Women who suffer from anxiety are often so embarrassed or frightened by the feelings of panic that seem to come from nowhere that they are often hesitant to seek help or not even aware that help is available. Compounding the issue is a tendency to withdraw from family and friends out of fear that a panic attack might strike, which makes the anxiety only worse and further erodes away at enjoyment of normal pleasures. Other symptoms of anxiety or panic that may interfere with a woman’s ability to function include:
- Racing heart or feeling “shaky inside”
- Trouble concentrating or thinking straight
- Feeling like running away
- Having so much nervous energy that she has to pace constantly
- Fear of leaving the house or a particular room of the house
- Fear of being around crowds or excessive noise
- Trembling hands, feeling smothered, or being unable to breathe
- Trouble finding the right words to explain how she feels
- Feeling overwhelmed by activities of daily living
- Losing track of time or having trouble managing time
- Flashbacks about traumatic or upsetting experiences
- Having trouble sleeping or having nightmares
Treatment for anxiety can be complicated because the source is not always clear. Recent changes in life circumstances may trigger a severe episode of anxiety or such feelings may be a post-traumatic reaction to past stress or trauma experiences. The most effective treatment is through a comprehensive approach factoring in life circumstances, medical history and an understanding of the underlying reason for the problems. At Brookhaven Retreat, our medical and clinical staff are adept at assessing a woman’s experience of anxiety or panic and tailoring treatment to her particular needs. If you think you or someone you care about is having trouble with feeling excessively nervous, frightened or panicky, please call us and let us help.
