Maria, thank you for your reply - and to answer your question - the primary kicker was quitting smoking I think - it was incredibly difficult and painful and I went through a time where I seriously thought I wouldn't make it without smoking - BUT - I did, faced off with the addiction and didn't smoke and somehow, that kicked me to a new place - more courage, less fear - AND, at the same time, I was combining this site with the other to help combat the increased anxiety I was experiencing as well as continuing with weekly therapy and reconnecting with my friends and support group. I get in the most trouble when I isolate from others. So, basically, I took every tool available to me and used it! and it seems to be paying off - I've been blessed with a new energy towards life, regained my zest and joy for life again - it's been quite a gift - I still have 'moments' - attacks, but they're not as overwhelming or as long as they used to be...... I plan to keep going with what I've been doing, cuz I have a lot to learn and want to keep growing emotionally, building more strength, compassion & joy....
with luv,
SCBB (off to get some much needed sleep :) )