Facing Anxiety:
A Personal Story of Panic, Dreams, and Seeking Help
When Anxiety Feels Like a Flood
@jwhitak85 almost drowned last night. Waves from the ocean crashed into our house. Faceless friends ran up and down the stairs seeking shelter, and from my balcony, I could see massive waves rise above the home.
Inside, the water moved smooth and slow, like a silky bedsheet covering each corner. Each time the waves outside pulled back, the water inside drained slightly—but with every slam, it rose higher, nearly covering me from head to toe. Panic gripped me.
And then my alarm went off. I reached blindly for my wife, and sleep quickly pulled me back into the dream, repeating the flooding house over and over.
The Reality of Anxiety-Ridden Dreams
The panic didn’t last long once I fully woke. Over time, I’ve come to peace with these anxiety dreams, though they leave lingering tension—a low vibration under my skin. It’s always there, present but not usually disruptive of daily life.
A therapist once called it exactly what it felt like: Anxious Brain (AB).
Meeting My Anxious Brain Head-On
In therapy, we gave it a name and began responding:
- When AB told me I didn’t deserve to be a leader at work, we reminded ourselves of my 10 years of hard work.
- When AB said I wasn’t good enough for my spouse, we listed all the ways I am a loving and supportive partner.
- When AB told me I was failing my friends, my child, or my dreams, we countered with facts, encouragement, and self-love.
We fought back—until it didn’t seem to work anymore.
When Life Becomes Too Much
Stress, work, family, motherhood, finances, brain chemistry—these could all be blamed. But what mattered most was the constant dread that wouldn’t drain, like the water in my dream.
I spiraled in thoughts during meetings, traffic, bedtime routines. I feared failing at everything I once loved. Focus and joy slipped away.
Seeking Professional Help for Anxiety and Panic
Eventually, I called a psychiatrist and started medication. Three new pills, a plan for a calmer future, and support from professionals gave me hope.
If you’re in this place—or anywhere near it—please seek help. Not ready for a professional? Lean on a friend or family member. You are not alone.
There’s no shame in seeking help for mental health: therapy, meditation, exercise, medications—whatever works for you matters. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
Breathing Exercise to Calm Anxiety
Here’s a simple breathing exercise that can help when panic or anxious thoughts take over:
- Inhale deeply through your nose for 4 counts.
- Hold your breath for 4 counts.
- Exhale slowly through your mouth for 6 counts.
- Repeat for 3–5 minutes, focusing on the rhythm of your breath.
This can help ground you, slow your racing thoughts, and calm your nervous system.
You Are Not Alone
Beautiful Girl, the world needs you. You are more than your mental health struggles. With support, self-care, and professional help, we can navigate anxiety together.
