Coping

[daisycm83]

So, I have this friend, J. We've been friends forever - for so long, in fact, that we're now incredibly different people and I'm pretty convinced that if we met today, we would not be friends. But still, he is a friend from a time in my life that is very specific and unique and I love him a lot, even if it's more out of habit than anything else.

Comments

[mylittleredgirl]

You did 100% the right thing. By not getting too worked up about it yourself, you're leaving the door open for him to turn to you again if he needs to without the "oh god, I'm going to make her freak out" guilt. <3

[daisycm83]

Oh, good. Okay. I mean, I am glad that he feels he can come to me if he needs too, but not having much experience at this sort of thing makes me feel a little out of depth.

[sjhw_tolerance]

You did good. It might not seem like much, but just being there and accepting him as he is during this time is probably what he needed.

[daisycm83]

:-) Thanks. Reassurance is always appreciated.

[pixie_on_acid]

I agree with the above. You have done what you can, you've created a safe place and (as someone who does have panic attacks), that is EXACTLY what's needed.

One of the worst things someone can do is push. Panic attacks generally come with a sense of being overwhelmed and the need to escape. Comfort food and some space to breathe can be the best things going.

I would say that if he's able to study law, the worst is over (for now). One of the key things with a panic attack is that you can't think. All you want to do is run, and hide.

So, check in on him, be there if he comes looking. When he's calm enough that he can process what set him off, he might come to you, even just to say thanks.

*hugs*

Can I just say you are an awesome, wonderful person?

[daisycm83]

:-) Thanks. I appreciate the support and the clarification. And the kudos. BTW, hi! You know, I still think about that night in the ocean a lot. Good times.

[daisycm83]

:-)

[returnofpiper]

I used to get panic attacks, and for me, a big thing was not wanting to be alone. There was this sense of doom that something awful would happen if I was alone, or without someone I could count on right there. Now, by alone, I mean alone in a house/apartment, not alone in a room in said domicile. So I think just letting him chill at your place is absolutely perfect.

[daisycm83]

Good to know. Thanks!