James thought he was just stressed – then the panic attacks started | Diane Young

James

never thought of himself as someone who struggled with anxiety.

He was the kind of man who prided himself on his ability to keep it together, no matter the situation.

But then, out of nowhere, the panic attacks began.

They would often last for up to 30 minutes , with the first 10 minutes being the most extreme.

40% of Australians can experience panic attacks once or twice in their lives.

James ’ story is a reminder that stress isn’t something to dismiss or power through.

It can be the body’s way of asking us to stop and listen, he says.

“I used to think asking for help was a sign of failure. Now I see it as strength.”.