Hello, Dear Readers,

Today, I want to open up about a recent experience – a panic attack on my bus ride home from work last week. Panic attacks are not commonly discussed in my circle, so I’m reaching out to connect with you. If you've faced similar situations, I'd love to hear your insights on coping mechanisms.

Three weeks into my new job, after being out of work for five months – a refreshing change after leaving a toxic work environment – I found myself in a situation that triggered a panic attack. In my past job, stress manifested in severe physical symptoms, leading to shingles and unbearable body pains. The decision to leave was challenging but crucial for my well-being.

My first job in NYC was a nightmare; the manager refused to train me and even threatened to fire me on my third day. I had moved to NYC alone, knowing no one, and had to call my parents to tell them I might have to move back in with them in Virginia because I'd used up my life savings on the move and hotel stay. When I eventually left that job, I joined my friends at a smaller clothing company, and I enjoyed working alongside them, but the toxic culture persisted. We were told we couldn't take lunch breaks, and if we insisted, we were told ‘You know where the door is.’ The owner's behavior was unacceptable, and the workplace was chaotic and disorganized.

My first panic attack happened on a bus ride home from that job. It felt like my body was shutting down; I thought I was dying. I experienced physical symptoms like my throat closing up, profuse sweating, and intense nausea. Fortunately, I was alone on the bus so that I could call my husband for support. The stress from that job manifested in severe body pains and even shingles. My doctor attributed these health issues to severe depression.

The transition to my current job has been positive, with no signs of drama and a respectful environment. So, why did I experience a panic attack recently? Despite feeling calm and not perceiving stress, the symptoms resurfaced during my bus ride home.

Have you ever dealt with panic attacks, especially in situations where leaving is not an option? I'd appreciate hearing your thoughts and strategies. Please share your experiences in the comments below, and let's start a conversation on navigating through challenging moments.

Here are a couple of tips my therapist gave me. One involves crossing your arms over your chest and tapping alternatively on each shoulder, creating bilateral stimulation to help calm you down.

Another technique takes practice so if you practice meditation, you can add it here in your mental health practice. Visualize a place that brings you calm and use your five senses. If you like the beach, meadow, etc. Visualize the sounds of the waves, the feel of flowers while you run through a meadow with your fingertips, the smell of rain in the mountains, the sight of bluebirds flying near, and the taste of chocolate from a chocolate factory.

The key is to engage all five senses in your mental health practice for a calming effect. Sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste.

With warmth and solidarity,

Bex