In Reply to: panic attack question re plane flight posted by tracilovesbali on Friday, 19. August 2011 at 12:34 Bali Time:
I had a panic attack some years ago so I sympathise. I did go on one of the antidepressants at the time but while it took away the ‘big' panicky feeling, it actually made me feel more nervous at a lower level, if you know what I mean.
I went off it pretty quickly and found that just focussing on my breathing helped - not too deep and not too shallow. Focus on something like a glass on the table and try and block everything else out if you can. This can be done far ahead of the stressful event - it's like money in the bank; you build up your savings of calm so you can draw on them later.
Singing also helps - I think it makes you breathe more completely so belt out a few numbers a few times a day and see if it improves things.
Yes, cut out coffee and concentrated sugary things like sweets and cordials. And if you smoke, try and reduce the amount if you're able. Not smoking is even better. And get as much sleep as you can.
As far as nostrums are concerned, I haven't had any luck with Rescue Remedy but I find Brauer stress pills work very well. Non prescriptive, non addictive and you can keep taking them continuously (no alcohol in them either).
I have tried Valium for dental work - didn't really do much to keep the panic in check. Temazepam was a little better and did make me sleepy, but I don't think it would have helped much with a full blown panic attack. Apart from the fact that these are pretty strong drugs and not usually the best things to take for anxiety problems. Also I'm not sure whether they're legal in Indo or not so if you do get any of these, check before you go, because you sure don't want to find out at the other end that they're not.
So in summary doing breathing exercises seems to be the most effective way of dealing with panic attacks. It doesn't seem like much but most of the panicky feeling comes from the lack of oxygen due shallow breathing (even if it doesn't feel like you're doing it).
And get everything organised - have a travel list done early and check it off when you're packing. Make sure your housework is done a few days before and everything is organised ahead of time - and double check your passport and credit cards before you go to the airport. Plan to get there a bit earlier so you're not rushed.
And try and imagine how relaxed you'll be when you get to Bali - soft warm air, relaxing underneath the coconut palm - focus as hard as you can on this. I wouldn't be at all surprised to hear that the panic just drops away the moment you get there!
Good luck.