You are driving down the highway. You are on your way to an appointment. Suddenly, as if out of nowhere, it feels as if your ribs are constricting and your air is catching in your lungs. You have to pull over and concentrate on something else. You have a hard time concentrating on anything else. “What if I am having a heart attack?” “What if something happens to me?” You dial the emergency numbers and they come to assist you.

The clinician informs you that you had a panic attack. You feel confused. You’ve never before suffered from panic attacks or anxiety. Where does this come from?

Anxiety and panic attacks present very differently in women. Women more often experience emotions such as fear, panic, and unease and therefore might not be aware when these emotions increase or become overwhelming

Signs of anxiety include:

• Unable to concentrate on anything other than the present worry
• An increase in heart rate or your smartwatch regularly telling you to take a break
• A sense of impending doom
• A sudden upset stomach, nausea, or inability to eat
• Feeling very tired, but once you get to bed you are unable to sleep

A good counselor can be invaluable in offering skills and support in managing anxiety. Being able to identify anxiety symptoms in women, and understanding the unique challenges women face, it is important to find a counselor that will guide and support you.

As counselor, I offer a range of services and skills to help you in managing anxiety. There is a way forward and I would love to hear from you.