There are three things that a person with panic/anxiety disorder can do. One is to seek counseling and stay in counseling. Which is hard for a 20 year old to accept sometimes.

Second is to try medication if the panic attacks are frequent enough to warrant it.

Third is to make “life changes” that support a lifestyle of limited anxiety and panic attacks. Examples would be to avoid self medicating with alcohol or drugs b/c it only ends up backfiring into a whole other issues. Start an exercise program to release excess tension and anxiety. Start a relaxation program such as yoga, massage, meditation, etc.

These are the types of changes he will need to implement in his life from this point on. If he is resistant, he may need to come to these conclusions on his own – but at least if he has the information – he will be well on his way. Armed with information! Another great program you could buy for him to try which gets rave reviews is Panic Away over at: http://tinyurl.com/lsprck

Best,
Lisa

I have to try to convince him that he needs the help; he brushes it off, like he can handle it on his own.

I hope the Doctor he is seeing is going to get him through this.

Any comments on how family members can help him would be helpful.

thank you, christine