Hi Sara, glad to meet you,
I think you will find the 'group' a real asset in evaluating your progress, setbacks, triumphs, etc, as you deal with your issues. Sounds like you have panic attacks - I know the 'beast' well. If you navigate this site and read many of the posts, you will find out many many people have panic attacks - also, you will see how people cope with them, their different strategies, etc.
To speak about your not being able to spend time with your friends - I can relate.
I cannot tell you how many times I have been looking forward to going someplace with someone (even going to work, essential things have had to be put on the back burner because of a panic attack) - and, at the last minute, the panic starts and I have to make some excuse, and end up sitting at home - afraid to go out because I don't want to have a episode in front of anyone - it is incredibly embarrassing - so, what stage of panic attacks would you say you are at.
The good news is, it won't kill you. It is just such a terrifying happening to say the least. How are you dealing with it?
Bye for now,
Maria
P.S. Glad you found this site, you will meet alot of really nice people in this group. There is nothing you can say that will surprise any of us - we know what you are going through. Using this as a tool, like being in group, you may find comforting.
