April/May 2009
Overcoming Panic and related Anxiety Disorders
By Margaret Hawkins
Are you struggling with an anxiety disorder? Do you have panic attacks or obsessive compulsive disorder and cannot see a way forward? Do you need to understand the symptoms and feelings that are making you feel so ill? If so, this book written by Margaret Hawkins, Chairperson of No Panic, can help.
It will not be easy and you will have to work hard but it can be done. Margaret’s writing began after experiencing what she describes as ‘a living nightmare’ and not being able to find a simple, straightforward explanation for what was happening to her.
I have learned to recognise Margaret’s style of writing; it is concise and direct, yet understanding and empathetic. What I particularly like about this book is its continuity. It explains anxiety in all its complexities in such a logical way, each of the chapters like pieces of a jigsaw which begin to take shape and fit together. What starts out as a frightening, mysterious set of symptoms start to make sense. If all the techniques described within this book are understood and practised then slowly but surely you will learn to identify and control the often terrifying sensations caused by high anxiety and begin to change your life.
The introduction may well describe exactly how you are feeling at this moment, it is sometimes quite a shock to realise that you are not alone, actually many people feel, or have felt, the way you do. This includes Margaret who goes on to tell her story and to share with you, in this book, all the information and experience she has gathered.
Chapter one discusses why we panic and the importance of correct breathing, how hyperventilation can develop into a full blown panic attack and what can be done to remedy this situation. Next Margaret explains in an easy to understand way how the nervous system plays a vital role in anxiety conditions. In other words ‘What really happens in a panic attack and why it can’t hurt you’? Also discussed are feelings of unreality, anger, the fear of going mad and how do deal with these feelings.
Breathing correctly is very important and Margaret tells us why but also how to breathe correctly. Next is the importance of daily relaxation together with examples of relaxation exercises. Diet and exercise also play an important role in recovery from anxiety.
Overcoming Panic and Related Anxiety Disorders has a chapter on anxiety and phobias with sufferers’ stories for you to relate to. The main groups of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and specific types of phobias, such as agoraphobia are highlighted, with a section on self help for phobias and OCD.
A comprehensive chapter follows on getting help from others, together with twelve handy tips for helpers, gained from many years of experience. I have not really seen this topic covered in this way before and found it extremely helpful.
The final chapter is coping techniques and final stages. There are coping strategies to help you continue with your progress but also a check list of how far you have come.
In conclusion this book covers all you need to know to understand your anxiety condition and to begin the journey of recovery. It would also be of great benefit to anyone wanting to understand anxiety as a carer, family member or professional. This is not a medical book and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor; however it gives a clear concise insight into all anxiety conditions by an author with vast knowledge of anxiety conditions and the ability to impart this information to others.
Another great book from Margaret Hawkins and Sheldon Press.
ISBN: 978-1-84709-061-4
Available from all good book shops and Amazon Cover price £7.99
Or direct from No Panic at £7.50 Inc p & p