Hi, not sure if this works or not havent figured out how to start or reply to a thread. First panic attack I had was when I was 15 and my grandpa died. After that I was very seldom until I was about 22. Social places get me mostly, bars, parties, really anything out if my comfort zone. I take Paxil 20mg daily, but I'm trying to ween down to 10. I take Xanax as needed. It's hard for me to out places with my friends. Sportin events and big crowds are rough on me and I'm a huge sports fan so it stinks.

This week I'm going on vacation withy girlfriend. We are going to a small cabin in the middle of no where and I'm freaking out. She is very good about my anxiety and is understanding. I do better when I go places alone, I can meet up with people but having my own exit plan helps and in this trip I am going to be with her. I know I should be looking forward to this and it should be fun and relaxing but I can't help feeling anxious. I'm afraid of having panic attacks while I'm there. That's all I'm afraid of but since you have had them you know they are horrible.

When I get them my neck gets warm and tingly then I just get panicked, not shaky but I feel like I'm going to die. I know there is nothing wrong but I can't help it. My best strategies so far are to try and occupy my brain with something else, reading helps. I try not to take the Xanax but I'd I have a panic attack I take some and just fall asleep. When I wake up its over, I know there have to be better ways but once a panic actually hits its hard for me to stop.

Reading things like these forums helps. I still go places but its less than before and I have a good job friends family and girlfriend. I know this Sounds horrible but it helps to know there are people out there like me and even worse off than me. It helps me say, see it could be worse.

Anyone have any hints on how to avoid these feelings of anxiety? I know it's all in my head so I try and think of other things, anyone have things they think of that help?