Having a panic attack

[Pebble]

edit, venting removed

[Dan74]

Take a few deep breaths, Pebble. Try to pay attention to them as you breathe.

These thoughts and feelings that are getting you down, they will pass. They are already changing now.

You have what it takes to set the course of your life to what you wish. As you say, exercise, eat healthy, don't smoke, don't indulge these negative thoughts. Step by step you will leave them far behind.

[poto]

Go see a doctor. If you're broke, check into social services. You might qualify for some sort of medical assistance. Even if you have to pay some money, do it anyways, it's your health and you need to take care of it.

Also, keep looking for a job. This is the worst economy I've ever seen, but there are still jobs to be had out there, just don't give up.

[kirk5a]

Dude, relax. You wrote a post on a forum, I'm pretty sure that's a good indication you're not dying.

Just breathe in and out in a way that feels a bit more calm, a bit more relaxed on each in and out breath. Stay with this until you feel more "normal."

And whatever you're smoking - maybe give it a break.

[Ben]

I agree with poto.
Go and see a doctor. Your anxiety/depression needs assessment and possibly treatment. But let a trained clinician assist you with that.
You may also find telephone counselling via the befrienders to offer you some valuable assistance and referral:
http://www.befrienders.org/index.asp
All the best,

Ben

[Shonin]

Panic attacks are not uncommon. It doesn't mean you're dying (even if it feels like it). It will pass. Many years ago I was in a not-disimilar position. You will find a job - for now, aim a bit lower. Your anxiety and mental health issues will pass. You will develop confidence and robustness. Keep practising, get the advice of a doctor. You might want to see if you can get referred onto a CBT or mindfulness-based therapy for your panic attacks. There are also drugs that can be prescribed that may help (although I think of these are relieving symptoms rather than geting to the roots of the problem).