Finding Balance: My Journey with Panic Attacks and the Power of Working from Home

It's hard to believe it's been a year since my first panic attack. I used to think that people were exaggerating their experiences with panic attacks, dismissing their stories as mere stress. How wrong I was.

Living abroad for nearly 15 years with my husband and two kids, without any family nearby to help, has its challenges. We juggle full-time jobs, school runs, extracurricular activities, and household responsibilities - all while trying to maintain some semblance of sanity. On the surface, we seemed to manage just fine. But beneath that exterior, my mind was quietly storing all the stress and fears, ready to erupt at any moment.

The trigger for me was a nightmare—a vivid dream where my eldest son was in danger. I woke up struggling to breathe, and the sensation didn’t go away. As the morning progressed, I experienced palpitations, cold sweats, and an overwhelming fear. I thought I was having a heart attack. In my panic, I called my GP, who calmly informed me that I was having a panic attack and needed to come in immediately. My husband rushed home to take me to the doctor, and I was a mess—crying, shaking, and convinced I was dying.

After a sedative injection, I calmed down, but the panic attacks didn’t stop. They became a daily ordeal. Medications offered some relief, but they weren't a sustainable solution. The real turning point was finding a psychologist who specializes in stress and panic attacks. Therapy has been a lifeline, providing me with the tools to manage my anxiety and understand its triggers. A year later, I continue to go to therapy twice a month, supported every step of the way by my husband.

Through this journey, I’ve learned that my panic attacks are deeply connected to my thoughts about my kids, work, and relationships. I’ve had to make tough decisions about prioritizing my mental health. This meant cutting out toxic people from my life and dedicating more time to my children and myself. I've embraced activities that bring me joy and help me relax.

A crucial part of managing my anxiety has been embracing a flexible work schedule and the option to work from home. For someone with a constantly multitasking brain, the traditional work environment can be overwhelming. Working from home allows me to balance professional responsibilities with personal well-being. It provides the flexibility to manage sudden anxiety episodes without the added pressure of a rigid schedule or a crowded office.

This flexibility has been transformative, helping me create a sustainable work-life balance that supports my mental health. It’s not just about convenience—it's about fostering a healthy and productive lifestyle.

If you're facing similar challenges, know that you're not alone. Seeking help and embracing flexible work options can make a significant difference in your journey to wellness.