Many websites, blogs, and even apps for people dealing with panic attacks and anxiety come with communities where you can talk to other people. If you’re interested in a community with a specific focus, or specific tech capabilities like live chat or anonymity, its best to do a search for what you’re looking for.
Here are just a few — there are tons out there:
Risks of online groups
It’s important to note that anonymous or semi-anonymous online support comes with risks as well as benefits. It can be good to get support from others, but be careful that you don’t get sucked into a social world that primarily focuses on the negative — rehashing and dwelling on painful feelings can sometimes make them worse rather than better.
Don’t let someone else who is ill drag you into their negativity, and don’t feel responsible for other people’s well being. Be wary of online cultures that encourage you to invest a significant part of your identity in being someone who has anxiety/panic attacks.
Remember that you don’t have to take advice from any internet person (including me). People hanging around in forums and chatrooms are not usually trained and certified in therapeutic strategies, and they may have their own agenda driving what they say. Whether they are trying to find distraction from their own problems, playing the hero by “fixing” someone else, or promoting a specific healing method they think is correct, watch out for people whose input won’t be positive for you.
Spending hours and hours in an online world focused on mental health issues can be a numbing behavior, or reinforce narratives that aren’t helping you. If spending time in forums or chatrooms isn’t actively helping you feel better, leave!
Set intentions
If I’m entering an online community, I find it helpful to set intentions going in. Am I looking for:
- a social connection to just chat with people who share experiences
- recommendations/anecdotes about a certain drug, therapy style, book, etc. from people who have tried it
- an opportunity to give advice and help other people
- support and reassurance when I’m in a low point
- advice and motivation to get out and solve a problem that’s been holding me back
Setting intentions helps you determine whether you’re getting what you need out of an online community. Check in with yourself honestly about whether time spent there is helping you reach your goals. If not, leave!
This article is part of the “So You Had A Panic Attack” resource guide. Go back to the SYHAPA index page
