I want to work but panic's are too much!!!

[AndyC]

Hello my name is Andy, I am a 23 year old male. Ive been struggling with anxiety (Panic Attacks) for 7 years now. I used to work, be very sociable and happy. For the last 2 Years I have tried a lot of medications to try and help my panics. One of those caused me to be very ill. I have severe panic attacks, where I am gagging, shaking, headaches everyday. I am medically fine, the doctor tells me its just panic attacks. Last december I tried to start work,I got the job and the first day approached. I could not do it, I had this horrible overwhelming fear, I turned around and went home. This has happend twice now. Anyway, I thought I would start councelling sessions which I have had for 6 months, everything seems to be going fine, UNTIL!!! I start a voluntary placement today, I managed to get into work and start my day,then my manager mentioned answering the phone as part as my job. I tried telling my manager that I could not answer the telephone at this present time, as getting hear and getting back into work was making my Anxiety level high enough. I dont think she really understands and tries to push me into doing it to get over the fear. Again I had this overwhelming fear and I told her I could not do this Voluntary job. I explained to my career advicer that maybe smaller steps without the telephone would really help me, I was really comfortable when I was at work, but as soon as she mentioned Telephones it brought my world crashing dow. I would really appreciate anybodys help, as all I want to do is try and get better, I have just felt like ive hit a dead end and that I keep letting myself down and asking myself questions like ' Will I ever be able to do things?'  etc. PLEASE HELP :)

[sixpack]

Hi andy.   I just read your intro post.  I know you are new and welcome .  However, we ask that you not post the same query in multiple folders, so I'm going to lock this one.  For those who have any helpful advice for andy, you can post your response here:

 http://www.anxietyzone.com/index.php/topic,27192.msg159209.html#msg159209