Dear joanna:

Notice that you are evidence, as well as millions of other people, all are evidence that the feeling itself, the fear, is not dangerous: you survived it, millions survive it for decades and into old age. The feeling, no matter how alarming, does not kill.

Notice again, that you and millions of others are evidence that the fear does cause one to go psychotic, not after one panic attack, and not after many.

To manage anxiety it takes a multi disciplinary approach: psychiatric drugs may be needed, short term, if not long term, psychotherapy, meditation, exercise, and so on.

Management of anxiety is a long term process, not something that can be achieved in an hour or a day, or even a week, a month. It takes months, if not longer. The progress/ improvement, if you persist, is very gradual. A realistic attitude, patience with the process and gentleness with yourself are needed.

anita