"The only thing we have to fear, is fear itself"

Winston Churchill sure knew what he was talking about.

I remember feeling fearful a lot growing up. It started compounding after college, and later in work, marriage, motherhood - obviously with the Postpartum Depression/PPD. I allowed the PPD to become a conduit to other emotional problems. Have y0u ever had a panic attack? If you have not, you are lucky! I literally thought that I was dying of a heart attack! That is a frequent symptom/feeling for the poor souls that experience these.

I describe it this way: I start feeling this numb, cold feeling all over my body. I cannot hardly speak, except to "stutter out a few syllables!" My heart is racing! It is terrifying! I thought I was dying! The symptoms can be palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, choking, chest pain, nausea, dizzy, feelings of unreality, fear of going crazy, fear of dying, numbness and finally, chills or hot flashes.

When our kids were little, I remember having a panic attack as I was checking out at the grocery store! I was so mortified and embarrassed! No one probably even noticed. I hurriedly wrote a check; I bet that the handwriting on that check was a sight to behold! ha ha

My doctor assured me that I was fine. And the good news is that I sort of learned how to "head one off at the pass," by positive self talk and deep breathing! But sometimes that is easier said than done.

Right now I feel a growing uneasiness and fear regarding the health crisis that is once again upon us. I cannot stress again how important it is to "know thyself", and then know the best ways to handle your triggers. It is all about choices , what I choose to think!