How to manage panic attack due to fear of the dark?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been experiencing what my mother says is a panic attack, but I am not sure because I only get racing thoughts, my heart races or beats really hard, and I feel shaky like I might cry (no other symptoms). I read that panic attacks peak at 10 minutes, but I feel this way for hours and it keeps me up at night. I have no previous problems with mental health, and I think it is only a fear of the dark keeping me up. What should I do?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Your mother is probably right. You are describing anxiety and panic symptoms. Staying at a noisy Air BNB has probably accentuated your fears. How long have you been having these symptoms? If you are not having any problems during the day and no problems during other situations, then it possibly is just a fearful psychological reaction to an unfamiliar situation. If it is persistent and pervasive, it will be helpful to see your doctor for an assessment. Try these simple measures to manage your fear which include breathing techniques, progressive muscle relaxation exercises, keep a light switched on in your room during sleep. Perhaps having some music at low volume can help and speak to your mother, friend regularly, if possible, you can share your room with a friend to make it less fearful. Remember that these fearful thoughts get better gradually with support. Take care. Thank you.