Hey Mishka, Well done for texting CG ! That was very friendly of you and also brave, takes guts to reach out to people, if its someone you feel a bit unsure about.
I used to get panic attacks and I know how horrible that is. Sounds like you were a bit overwhelmed. Maybe yuor confidence is a bit low, so perhaps you are expecting a little too much of yourself to go into a new sitch like that. I am sure you will be able to do it next time, or the time after, or maybe a time when CG would be there.. and whats wrong with wanting a friendly face to ease you into it? Thats perfectly reasonable I think.
I found NLP worked quite well for panic attacks.. you just need to take the focus out of your mind, the anxious thoughts.. so you could wear something that reminds you of a happy time, like a ring or bracelet (or put one on and THEN think of a happy relaxed time).. and wear it to stressful sitches and when you feel anxious, twiddle the bracelet and take your mind to that happy relaxed place. A quicker way, is to take your awareness to your feet.. think of your feet, get out and stamp around if necessary.. gets you out of your head.
Hope that helps a bit, in case it happens again. It helped me at those times.
I am glad you shared your worries about Marc with Gabe and it is sad that he looks like sh*t. My ex looked bad too on Tuesday, very tired, bad skin (eczema flared up), thinning hair.. and yes, it made me feel a little better that he is not all happy and loved up, so I understand your reaction!
I guess its difficult to get through to your son, becuase of his autism. Will you try talking to Gabe again about his schoolwork?
I'm sorry your cousin was a bit rubbish, people can get a little wrapped up in their own lives hey. You only just got D, so you were bound to be feeling a little fragile and in need of supportive company? Did you tell your cousin you had been upset, or did you just talk to her about the dinner?
