From your description, it’s possible that you’re dealing with anxiety, perhaps generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder, especially considering your symptoms of overthinking and panic attacks. Your symptoms—breathlessness, heart racing, shaking, and crying—are typical for panic attacks. Anxiety can often be influenced by stressors such as academic pressures, relationship issues, and lack of a support system, all of which you mentioned. Given that this affects your sleep too, you’re experiencing quite a bit of distress. It’s crucial to address both the symptoms and the underlying causes. Firstly, I recommend consulting with a mental health professional like a psychologist or psychiatrist for a more detailed evaluation. They may suggest cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which is effective for anxiety and panic disorders, and can provide coping strategies for managing stress and panic attacks. Regarding medication, a healthcare provider might consider SSRIs or benzodiazepines, but only as a last resort, given their risk of side effects or dependence. It’s important these are prescribed and monitored by a physician. To help improve sleep, try establishing a consistent routine: the same bed and wake times daily, and avoiding screens or caffeine close to bedtime. For immediate relaxation during panic attacks, grounding techniques like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation can be helpful. Engaging in regular physical activity, such as jogging or yoga, can also alleviate symptoms of anxiety over time. Creating a structured study schedule can help in managing academic stress as well. Since you’re experiencing these symptoms frequently and intensely, if at any point you feel overwhelmed, or unsafe, seek immediate medical attention.
What is causing my constant overthinking and panic attacks as a JEE aspirant, and how can I treat it?
Hello doctor, I have been experiencing constant overthinking for around 4 years now, but recently it has become worse. I am a JEE aspirant and this is affecting my studies a lot. I get sudden panic attacks where I feel breathless, like I’m choking, my heart races, my body shakes, and I start crying uncontrollably. I try to control it for a few days, but then it suddenly becomes very intense. I am also not able to manage my sleep properly. Sometimes I feel very restless, and other times I end up sleeping a lot more than usual. I am also dealing with relationship issues and family stress, and I don’t really have friends or anyone I can open up to, which makes it harder to cope. I have no major past medical issues and I am not on any regular medication. Could you please guide me on what this could be, and if needed, suggest any safe medications or treatment that might help?
How often do you experience panic attacks?:
- Several times a weekHow would you rate the intensity of your panic attacks?:
- Moderate — disruptiveHow long do your panic attacks typically last?:
- 30 minutes to an hourWhat do you usually do to cope when you feel overwhelmed?:
- No specific coping strategiesHow has your appetite been lately?:
- DecreasedHow often do you feel restless or have trouble sleeping?:
- Every nightHave you experienced any changes in your mood or energy levels?:
- Some fluctuationsHave you tried any techniques or treatments for your anxiety before?:
- Self-help techniques (e.g., journaling)100% Anonymously
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Doctors' responses
Hello dear See you are a young male and definitely due to hormonal alterations these chances occur. Iam suggesting some methods for improvement Please follow them for atleast two months Do physical exercise atleast half an hour daily for 5 months Do meditation Take good balanced diet for good health Engage in social media Indulge in hobbies like reading and writing Avoid overthinking Avoid junk food and alcohol/ smoking Set your goals for every day Hopefully improvement will occur In case of no improvement in 2 month consult psychiatrist in person for better clarity Regards
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