No, You’re Not Crazy and Yes, it will get better.

I know people have made you feel this way—and most likely even your own mind—but you’re not crazy. I promise. The panic that keeps hammering you and the thoughts that won’t stop spinning has a name. They are panic and anxiety. Again, no, you’re not crazy.

You’re human.

Your body, mind, emotions, and spirit are all working to try and tell you something. They need rest, and most of all, they need compassion. You need compassion.

People will tell you that it’s all in your head. What does that even mean? Just because something is in your head doesn’t mean it isn’t real. The panic, fear, and anxiety you’re feeling are very real inside your body and mind. Don’t let anyone make you feel ashamed for what you are experiencing or downplay the pain you are going through.

I have been there, friend.

I know your pain. It’s real, it hurts, and it’s confusing. Even though it feels like you have no control over your emotions, I promise you do. When the panic comes at you again, start by breathing. Yep, that’s all; just breathe and then quietly remind yourself, “This is just a panic attack, that’s all; it can’t hurt me. It’s going to be okay.” And you know what; those aren’t just words; it’s absolute, rock-solid truth.

And friend, truth is powerful.

This panic you’re feeling right now can’t hurt you. It’s a roaring lion with no bite. You feel it coming, and it terrifies you, but it can’t hurt you.

This is the truth. And truth is what will set you free from the panic you feel.

You don’t need to figure this out, do anything, or feel ashamed. Be patient with yourself, be kind to yourself, and focus on breathing and believing the truth.

This anxiety and panic isn’t you. It’s a piece of what you’re experiencing right now—but it’s not all of you, and no, it won’t be like this forever. So, friend, here is the truth about what you are going through:

• You are not alone. Millions of people are walking this same road.
• It will not last forever. Panic and anxiety are a part of emotions, and emotions don’t last forever.
• This will get better. That’s all. It will.
• Your mind is spinning with solutions, casting blame, and is probably filled with frightening thoughts. Remember, “It’s just anxiety, and they’re just thoughts.” Try not to give them any attention, and remember they have no power unless you give them power. You’re not perfect, so you won’t do this perfectly. That’s okay; new things take time.
• You feel tired and worn out but wired at the same time. You’re feeling the effects of cortisol release, It’s okay; your body is just doing what it was designed to do. Be kind to yourself through the process.
• Your body probably aches in strange places, which may frighten you even more. It’s okay; We tense up in really weird ways when we experience extreme stress and panic and often don’t feel it until our body starts to relax again. You’re going to be sore and feel weird aches and pains. Have a heating pad or heated blanket nearby. Oh, and be kind.
• Your heart is racing because of the adrenaline that’s been shooting through. That’s normal, your mind has told your body that you need to run. Start telling yourself you don’t need to run. You’re safe right where you are.
• You might feel spacy, foggy, tired, wired, exhausted, panicked, dizzy, super thirsty, nauseous, and irritable, to name just a few. It will all pass. Give yourself time and patience. Oh, and be kind.

It will get better. It won’t last forever, and you’re not crazy.

I PROMISE. I’m just going to keep saying it. Because you need to keep hearing it. It’s all true. And the truth will set you free. Panic and anxiety do not last forever. Start with breathing, kindness, and truth. As you feel more yourself, you can work on what your mind, body, and spirit are trying to tell you. But that’s not today. Today, you need rest, truth, and kindness. And maybe a warm bowl of soup and a heating pad.

From one panic sufferer to another, I’ve been there and now I’m here, and one day you will be too. You’ll be okay.

***Please seek help during this time, whether from a trusted family member, friend, or medical professional. Don’t feel ashamed to reach out for help. We all need help sometimes. 

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As always, friend, thank you for stopping by,