Panic

[User12356]

I have always been shy and socially anxious. My nightmare has always been public speaking, even reading in class at school caused me so much anxiety.
Lately it seems to have gotten so much worse. I am getting very panicky in places where I feel I cannot easily escape. It happens in church, on the bus etc. I cannot pay for something in a shop now without panic. When I am standing at the cash register my heart races, I feel so hot, I start to shake and I feel like I need to run away.
I am trying to work up the courage to see my GP but I am so panicky about that too. I find appointments can bring on the panic.
Has anyone experienced this and found anything that helps? Would sertraline help with this?

I completely understand what you're going through, and your story really resonates with me. I used to experience the same panic when I had to present in front of the class. My body would heat up, my heart would race, and I would feel like I might faint. The worst part was that all the preparation I did seemed to vanish in that moment, leaving me feeling helpless. It's a frustrating and scary experience, and I know how hard it can be to feel like you’re losing control.
I wish I had a perfect solution, but what helped me was learning to believe in myself, even when things felt overwhelming. Facing these situations with as much confidence as I could muster, little by little, started to make a difference. Therapy has been a huge help too, and I think it could be really beneficial for you. Talking to a professional who understands what you're going through can provide tools to manage these feelings and help you regain a sense of control.
As for medications like sertraline, they can be effective for some people, especially for anxiety and panic. It might be worth discussing with your doctor to see if it’s right for you. You’re definitely not alone in this, and there is help out there that can make a difference.

Can you remember when this started? Finding the root cause is the best way of dealing with it.

Panic is something many humans experience at times. It can be helpful to read up on the physiological and psychological causes.

Do you have more stress than normal in life at present?

Depending on the root cause, it is likely your GP can help.

With regards to telling your GP - write down what is happening. You could also take someone you trust to the appointment.

Look up breathing exercises/meditation for today.

Thank you for all the replies. I don't think there is a single root cause. I have been anxious since I was a child. The panic attacks are getting worse now though. As soon as I get into an environment where I have had a panic attack before I start to panic and this usually brings on another one.