“Just because the pain is invisible doesn’t mean it isn’t real. And just because it comes from within doesn’t mean it can’t be overcome.”

💬 “I crashed down and I tumbled, but I did not crumble… I didn’t know my own strength.” – Whitney Houston

When It All Began

My journey began in 2017. I would go to bed feeling fine. Then I would be jolted awake by what felt like a massive explosion in my chest. The shock would send me sitting upright in fear, convinced something was terribly wrong. These nightly episodes continued. Initially, I attributed them to stress. I thought about the crumbling relationship with my then-husband. I also considered the pressures of work. But the truth was far more complex.

Soon, the symptoms evolved: chills, hot and cold flashes at the same time, and sharp cramps down my left arm. These symptoms mimicked a heart attack, yet I ignored them — carrying on as if nothing was wrong.

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A Diagnosis I Didn’t Expect

After my divorce in 2018, the intensity of these episodes grew. My heart would pound uncontrollably. I felt as though something was stuck in my throat. The sensation of impending doom would take over, and I’d run outside into the cold, desperate for relief.

Eventually, during a particularly severe episode at work, I rushed to the emergency department. My vitals were checked, tests were run — everything came back normal.

Diagnosis: panic attack.

I remember asking, “What is that?” It was the first time someone gave a name to my experience.

But even with a diagnosis, the journey to healing wasn’t instant. I would return to the emergency room multiple times. I was prescribed medication and taught breathing techniques. Still, I often lay awake at night, afraid I wouldn’t wake up.

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The Role That Nearly Broke Me

In 2021, I accepted the role of Vice President within my union. I believed this position would allow me to make a difference. But what began as purpose-driven work turned into an emotional battlefield.

I found myself ridiculed by those I represented and mistreated by executive colleagues. Even shop stewards and close friends I had supported for years withdrew their encouragement. I was left isolated and emotionally bruised.

The psychological strain was unbearable. My health deteriorated. The union work — once a source of pride — became the largest trigger of my anxiety and panic attacks. I called out sick for months.

Then someone said to me:
“If you step away from the union, I believe you’ll start to feel better.”

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Relief Through Reclamation

At first, I dismissed the thought. In April of this year, I returned from medical leave and took a vacation to see my daughter. After that, something shifted. I realized I hadn’t taken my anxiety medication in over three months — and there had been no panic attacks.

The constant tightness in my chest had vanished.

That person was right. I removed myself from a toxic environment. I addressed my stressors one by one. I chose peace over performance. This gave my mind and body room to breathe again.

I finally rest. And more importantly, I will finally live again.

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“I had to fall, to lose it all. But in the process, I discovered something divine: I had strength I never imagined.”
— Inspired by Whitney Houston, “I Didn’t Know My Own Strength”

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Wings of Reflection: Your Path to Peace

I share my story not just for awareness, but as a reminder that healing is possible.

🕊️ Everyone should take the time to reevaluate and consider the stressors in their lives. Whether personal, professional, or emotional — name them. Then, take intentional steps to limit or remove what no longer serves your peace.

🕊️ Panic attacks do not define you. There are tools, therapies, and techniques that can help. More importantly, your healing begins with giving yourself permission to choose yourself. Allow yourself to walk away from harm. Take time to rest and rebuild.

🕊️ Never give up. We all have strengths — and I believe they are cosmic, spiritual, and unshakable. Tap into those strengths. Let them guide you as you cope, as you grow, and as you overcome.

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Let this space remind you that your courage has wings. With each breath, you are learning to fly again.
#WingsofCourage | #MentalHealthAwareness | #PanicAttackRecovery | #YouAreNotAlone

💡 Panic Attack Coping Tools

• 🧘🏽‍♀️ Grounding Techniques – 5-4-3-2-1 method (name 5 things you see, 4 you feel, etc.)
• 🌬️ Deep Breathing – Inhale 4 seconds, hold 4, exhale 4, pause 4 (Box Breathing)
• 📖 Journaling – Write freely for 10 minutes to release trapped emotions
• 🕊️ Affirmations – “I am safe. This feeling will pass.”
• ☀️ Step Outside – Fresh air and a walk can reset the nervous system
• 🧂 Cold Exposure – Splash cold water or hold an ice cube to activate the vagus nerve
• 🧠 Mindfulness Apps – Insight Timer, Calm, or Headspace
• 📱 Talk It Out – Call someone safe or text a mental health helpline