Anxiety, fear, stress, flashbacks, pain...

We just had something happen that once again brings us back to ground level and looking at things that really matter. My title is a short list of symptoms that will follow and come to the surface for weeks to come in anyone affected by this. The very worst thing you and anyone around affected can do, is drink. So, exit that plan to grab a six pack or a bottle and/or do what you can to keep the people close to you from stopping at the special store. Everyone deals with these issues differently. Do not allow them to push you away! Talking will help them deal with it and get past it. It will take time, even a few years. I'm sooooooo sorry that was once a normal everyday life activities has been changed. Call the free hot line, find someone who will allow you to vent, scream, cry. Some tricks I learned in my process that may be helpful. "Name" those symptoms, it will allow you to move past that moment, what ever it is. "Sprite" literally is my drug of choice. It will bring you back to 'now' in the middle of an anxiety attack in under 5 minutes. I kept one in my car, a six pack at home. Chocolate does wonders for you mood. Vitamin B1 is a great thing to add to you daily, my really baaaaad days, I'll take 2. 100mg is a good daily dose. Backing off the coffee and caffeine drinks will reduce these symptoms by huge amounts, and you won't notice the headache. If you're good about only drinks 2 cups a day (not 2-24oz cups a day). More like 24oz total, you should be okay but on really bad days. It may seem silly, but walk every day for at least an hour. I'm hard core, so on my really bad days, I go shopping, don't really spend money, but get around people while hugging a sprite. It's about getting the control back... I found that there are movies and tv shows that raise the heart rate to a point where it will increases the stress level, might want to hang out on the hallmark channel for a while. Lastly, write a lot. Buy some cheapo paper and some pens/pencils and write it out. Find something you have 100% control of and concentrate on that. For me it is driving, taking short day trips did wonders for me. The most important besides maintaining a healthy diet is showing yourself you care about yourself. I know that seems like something that is natural, but in the middle of a bad day, it isn't on the to do list. Keep your chin up and I wish there was something more I could do for you... If anyone if looking for a fabulous book to help out, here is the ISBN#9780071614948. I haven't said the diagnosis name yet, because it is misunderstood and tabu. I love this book and is very well written. Updated 7/24/12, as it turns out I work with a relative of one of those lost on friday night. My heart is sad for this person. As I watch the news and more stories about this person come out, I can't imagine the pain the relative(s) must be feeling. So, be nice to all, you may know someone who is dealing with a tragic loss.