Panic Attack

[sandytoes84]

I’m 35 weeks and last night I had what I think must’ve been a panic attack. Got out of bed, pacing the house, struggling to breathe and crying. I eventually calmed down by standing outside and focusing on breathing, but it’s really freaked me out that my mental health might be suffering.

Had about 4 hours sleep and currently having a candle lit bath to try relax before work.

I can’t pinpoint one cause and there is no one thing I feel overwhelmed by. Anyone tips or advice to avoid a repeat of last night gratefully received!

How are you feeling in general? Anxious? Stressed?

It could be as simple as baby moving into an awkward position that affected your breathing and your body went into panic mode because it couldn't function as normal.

I had thos is my first pregnancy for no reason what so ever my mental health was fine it just come on me, when ever I did I just focused on one thing and put head between knees and concentrate on breathing this really helped as did a sugary drink weirdly hope this helps xx

If it was just once I wouldn't over think it. If you get more then see your gp, I was prescribed xanex for severe panic attacks in late pregnancy so there are options available.

Thanks all. I feel like it was caused by anxiety, rather than physically struggling to breathe, though that certainly didn’t help. I generally feel quite anxious I guess, though I’m assuming that’s normal at this stage of pregnancy!

In my first pregnancy I experienced anxiety for 2 weeks. I am not an anxious person so put it down to hormones. It is a horrible experience and really feel for those who suffer from it long term. I had no triggers, just tried to ignore it and carry on as usual (easier said than done) as I felt it was pregnancy related. Thankfully it disappeared after those two weeks and haven't had it in my subsequent pregnancies. Hope your bath has helped.

It's almost definitely hormones if it's unusual for you. Just mention it to your midwife - she might have some handy tips for you.

Hopefully it doesn't happen again. It'll all be over soon and little one will be here!