Is this a panic attack?

Question

I'm sixteen, I weight 99 pounds. And today on and off I have felt this horrible feeling in my chest and around my heart area. It moves to my back, and its so tight I have a little trouble breathing. Plus, I got really tired out of nowhere and I couldn't hardly keep my eyes open. I wasn't shaking or anything, but the pain is almost enough to bring me to my knees. I'm a female, and I have been diagnosed with depression awhile back but things have got much better. I am on prozac but recently haven't been taking it. I haven't ate in over twenty four hours, and I just ate a little just now but this feeling won't go away. I don't think its gas. Please help. Thanks.

Answer 1

Oh, honey, eat something!  You will have all kinds of strange symptoms, including dizziness and heart palpitations when you don't eat. Your body and your brain need the nutrients.  You say that you have been diagnosed with depression; I'm glad you feel better, but have you ever had an eval for anorexia?  

Go, right now, and have a bowl of cereal or a peanut butter sandwich.  Get yourself some protein, and have a big glass of something good to drink (juice, herb tea, no caffeine!!)

If you still feel bad after a good night's sleep and some healthy breakfast, call your doctor.

Answer 2

Getting off of the prozac could be causing you to experience some anxiety. It could very well be a panic attack. Make sure you are slowly backing off the medication. You should also eat ;)

To help prevent panic/anxiety attacks, pay attention to your breathing. I learned from my therapist (I go for anxiety and depression) that your lungs are A LOT bigger than most people think. Be sure when you breathe, that you are using all of your lungs. Breathe from deep down instead of just your chest. People who just breathe from their chest tend to have anxiety... like myself. I found it very interesting.

Also stay away from caffine for now. Exercising will help to naturally correct your brain chemistry. Take a bath in lavender bath salt, read a book, write in a diary, etc. Anything that helps you stay calm.

I would also recommend, from personal experience, to try seeing a therapist. I found a therapist who has the same type of anxiety issues that I do and it has been extremely helpful. I'm actually beginning the process of getting off my meds and I am so excited!

Just take deep breaths and do what you need to do to stay calm. Try not to be anxious about getting the attacks because then it will just be one big snow effect and you won't be able to calm down.

You'll get through it :) I know exactly what you are going through!

Answer 3

no that doesnt really sound like a panic attack...