Panic attacks can happen anywhere and at anytime. Symptoms include several of the following:

dizziness or feeling faint,
palpitations, increased heart rate,
sweating, trembling or shaking,
difficulty breathing,
feeling of choking or nausea,
chest pain,
numbness or tingling sensations,
chills or hot flushes,
feelings of unreality and detachment,
fear of losing control,
fear of dying, and
a sense of great danger and an urge to escape.

The symptoms of a panic attack can last anywhere from several seconds to about ten minutes. Occasionally the symptoms come in ‘waves’ for up to 2 hours.

I know it is easy to say than do, but try not to think too much about ‘being stressed’ as this can cause anxiety/panic attacks and lead to high blood pressure. Try to look at the cause of stress (stressors) and see if you can eliminate them. If you haven’t already contact your local GP – I’m sure your doctor would be able to advise you properly. In some cases you may be referred to CMHT, community mental health team who will be able to give you expert advice, guidance and support.

Good luck and good health. Just remember you are not alone, one in four people in this country suffer from a mental illness at some time in their lives and stress related illnesses are ranked the highest.