I Don't Know What to Do
I'm 13 years old, and I've been having panic attacks for the past year. I just feel sad and worried all the time and I don't know how to get better. I feel tired and unmotivated all the time and I always hide it from my parents. Panic attacks are so scary and I don't want to have them anymore. I hyperventilate so much it feels like I'm going to pass out. I am nervous they will brush me off or be disappointed if I tell them I think I might have anxiety. I'm so scared. How and when do I tell them? What do I say? I used to ignore it but I've been having thoughts of self harm. I know I need to say something but I just don't know how. Please help. 😔
@Northernlights2007
I would urge you to reach out to your parents. It will clear the air a lot if you tell them what's on your mind and if they're loving and caring they will be glad you are able to talk to them freely.
There are breathing exercises you can do to calm yourself down when you have panic attacks. Remember to breathe from your diaphragm instead of your chest. There are lots of good videos on youtube if you look them up.
@Northernlights2007
Talk to your parents. And if it's scary to talk to them both, pick the one that you feel will be most understanding. (Yeah, we parents know that sometimes it's easier to talk to one than the other on certain topics.)
I know you're 13, and sometimes you might not know entirely why your're feeling the way you do (plenty of us adults are still trying to figure it all out), but when you have a panic attack, rather than be fearful of it, I want you to think about the WHY of it. "Why am I feeling this way?" What's making you feel nervous?
I want you to know that you're not alone and that we're all here for you. You can come here and talk to us any time you need it. And also - you're going to be okay. Really. :)
