How courageous of you to give voice to your feelings about this oppressive condition. It is the first necessary step in gaining control. It is perhaps the most diagnosed disorder of your generation.

Some 38 years ago, I, too, suffered from panic attacks and generalized anxiety disorder. I woke up one day and said, ‘No, I’m taking my life back.’ and slowly I made my way out of the pit of this debilitating disorder. I don’t know where I found the strength; perhaps a failed first marriage and the desire to move on with my life and make better choices or just being so damn tired of the attacks. It worked and what you are doing is a great step forward. Mom is right; you only skinned your knee. Life is a challenge for everyone, just different for each of us. My daughter Erica also has panic attacks; each year a little less frequently. Mastery comes with time and a little age, and some insight, which it sounds like you have and are developing more of each time you write.

Any time you want to talk, just call. Your folks have my number. Who knows? Maybe this is a genetic issue.

I never thought I would be patting myself on the back for driving 45 minutes to a game and staying in the stands for the whole thing, nor crying myself to sleep for feeling so alone in a disorder that tries to irrationally control my rational mind. It is a tough journey and I had so hoped that I would be further in my progress with it all. While I do much more than I used to do, I am still tightly caught in it’s web.

I look forward to reading through this and relating to someone.

Thanks for talking about it all.