I've been dealing with panic attacks for 18yrs. I was diagnosed with panic disorder in 2001. It affects my ability to work, I don't drive on freeways, can't even go to the grocery store or anywhere really by myself anymore, and so on, ect,ect. One of the only joys in life I still managed to hold onto is my love of scary movies. However, I've recently noticed that If my anxiety is acting up, I have a hard time watching certain tv shows like the first 48 and basically anything with a viewer warning. Here' s my dilemma, I promised to take my son (he's old enough) to see unfriended. I really want to be able to go and have a good time but I' m already psyching myself out. It's gonna be crowded and loud and the suspenseful parts will make my heart race. But I' m sick of missing out on life, the things I enjoy, and spending time outside my house with my son. Am I setting myself up for failure? Do I take anxiety medication or try to ride it out? Will the movie mess with my head? The horror genre has been a huge part of my life since I was 7. I don' t want to let it go. I' ve already had to give up caffeine, alcohol, and mary jane. I refuse to let this disorder take my horror movies from me too. Am I the only one scared to be scared by a movie?
