Page 78 - Advance Copy: Todd Kaufman, Author

TODD KAUFMAN
Ending panic attacks and managing anxiety is simply a learned skill.
So go ahead: Name your amygdala! And since you have to get along with this character, don’t name him or her after your arch enemy or your ex’s new partner! Pick or create a name that you can work with. Cartoon characters seem to be a favourite of my patients. Every day I get to chat with amygdalas named Stewie, Bugs (after Bugs Bunny), Annie, Baloo, Pumbaa and the occasional Scooby!
For easy reference, as I continue to share with you the keys to ending your panic attacks and managing your anxiety, I am going to use the name I gave to my amygdala, Homer.
Let’s get this relationship started!
If you have been experiencing panic attacks and anxiety for quite some time now, you are likely aware of how they tend to unfold for you. They can be a bit different for everyone. You may feel the constricted chest or the breathing problems first, or you may get hit with a wave of nausea, tingly hands or a tingly head. But however your body first responds to an impending attack or anxiety, take note of the initial symptoms.
You might even know in advance when you are going to be hit with a panic attack or anxiety. Certain events, people, places, things or even thoughts may trigger you. You may do your best to avoid these things, but life sometime demands you have to face them, and the anticipation of doing so can be the first sign of an oncoming attack. Whether you know in advance, or get hit suddenly, you now need to start taking note of the first signs of the attack.
Your first initial symptoms, or even your first initial thoughts of concern, are simply Homer’s way of getting your attention.
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