Did you know that you could have a panic attack for no reason? It happened in Australia to a weatherman. If you wish to follow the story you can click here to learn more.

The above picture feels distorted but this is how it may feel when you are actually experiencing an attack. You have trouble breathing, your heart feels like it is pounding, you can not stand, you get blurry or tunnel vision, you begin to perspire or may even collapse.

So what happens for most of my clients as the experience these feelings or sensations of panic is that they end up at the doctor? They explain the symptoms and then when nothing is found physically the client is told it is "only a panic attack". Generally they are prescribed medication and sent home. The meds do work but after a while they are no longer effective. This is when the client goes back to the physician and complains, only to receive a prescription for a larger dose or and alternative drug. Without taking a full survey I would guess that 80% or more of the calls I get for anxiety are from people already on medications that are ineffective or causing side effects.

Let us dive into the joyless world of the side effects of anti-anxiety medications. Because, if you are reading this you know, dealing with anxiety isn't already a walk in the park. Let's add a cherry on top with a delightful numbness of emotions and a parade of uncomfortable physical and emotional sensations.

First off, let's talk about the sexual side effects. Yes, these medications, in their infinite wisdom, decide that your sex life is fair game. You're trying to combat anxiety, and what do you get? A potential one-way ticket to Impotenceville. Adding insult to injury, It's not enough that you're wrestling with anxiety, now you've got to navigate the murky waters of sexual dysfunction as well.

Then there's depression. You take these pills hoping to feel less like you're stuck in a pit of despair, only to find the medication might just dig that pit a little deeper. Side effects can include an increase in depressive symptoms. So, essentially, you're taking a gamble, hoping that the anti-anxiety meds will tip the scales in your favor, but sometimes they just don't. And that's a bitter pill to swallow—literally.

Let's not forget about hopelessness. Because, why not? You're already feeling numb and possibly dealing with bedroom issues, so why not throw in a sense of utter hopelessness into the mix? It's like these medications are trying to test your resolve. They're supposed to help ease the anxiety, but for some, they bring about a feeling of being stuck, of being unable to see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's just another potential side effect to keep you on your toes, because life wasn't challenging enough.

The side effects of anti-anxiety medications can be a real kick in the teeth. Sure, they might help some people keep their anxiety at bay, but for others, they bring about a slew of unwelcome guests: emotional numbness, sexual dysfunction, increased depression, and an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. It's a veritable funhouse of discomfort.

Taking Affirmative Action When on Anti-Anxiety Medications

Embarking on a journey with anti-anxiety medication is a testament to your strength and willingness to seek help. I understand the concerns and stigma that can sometimes surround this topic, but let's clear the air: if you're on medications, you've taken a significant step towards your well-being. You sought professional assistance, and that deserves acknowledgment. It's like attending to a wound; you must first stop the bleeding, then address the underlying cause. You've managed the immediate panic, and now it's time to explore the roots of your anxiety.

For over three decades, I've incorporated Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT), or tapping, into my life. It's been a beacon of hope and an alternative method that has helped me navigate through tumultuous times. There are days when the waves of anxiety seem overwhelming, and tapping is my anchor. While most days are peaceful, I'm honest with myself about the existence of triggers that can still unsettle me. Have I eradicated them all? No, but that's where acceptance plays a crucial role.

The journey to managing anxiety is not about achieving a flawless state of calm but about embracing more good days and fewer challenging ones. Life unfolds with its blend of ups and downs, and it's natural to encounter stress. However, with tools like tapping and hypnosis, you can transform how you respond to potential anxiety triggers. These easy-to-learn techniques empower you to keep stress.