Overcoming the Feeling of Suffocation: Understanding and Managing Panic and Anxiety
Understanding the Sensation of Suffocation
Have you ever experienced a feeling of being unable to breathe adequately? This sensation, known as suffocation, can lead to feelings of panic, anxiety, and distress. Suffocation often involves a tightness in the chest, a feeling of pressure, or a sense of choking. People experiencing suffocation may feel lightheaded, dizzy, or disoriented due to the lack of oxygen. Biologically, the body's instinctive response to a lack of air can trigger the fight-or-flight response, creating a cycle where the panic exacerbates the sensation of suffocation, making it feel even more intense.
Friedman’s Journey with Suffocation
I’ve personally experienced suffocation-like sensations, although not to the extent of physical inability to breathe. After inter-dose withdrawal symptoms from being on Xanax, I stopped breathing and had to wake up gasping for air. It was a terrifying and unforgettable experience. The terror was so intense that I needed to prop myself up to sleep, and the fear was so paralyzing that I was scared to go to sleep. This continued until I finally stopped taking Xanax.
Psychological and Physical Factors
Suffocation can manifest in various contexts, both physical and psychological. Physically, it can occur due to reasons such as an obstruction of the airway, drowning, or being in an environment with insufficient oxygen. In psychological contexts, suffocation can manifest as a feeling of being overwhelmed or trapped in a situation, contributing to anxiety attacks or claustrophobia.
Biological Responses to Suffocation
When you cannot breathe adequately, carbonic acid from your soma cells begins to build up in your blood. This intensifies the breathe reflex in your brain stem, and your body's muscles struggle to draw the breath of life. Muscles from your neck to your abdomen are activated to get adequate breath. At the same time, your heart rate increases and your blood pressure goes up as your body tries to get the remaining oxyhemoglobin in your blood to your soma cells.
Experiences of Suffocation
The feeling of suffocation is not just a physical sensation but can also be a psychological experience. In the case of Friedman's abusive ex, the experiences were highly traumatic. During an argument, he would put his chest over her face, a behavior that was typical for him but far from normal. It was the most terrifying, panic-inducing realization of death as she struggled for air. Her mind flashed back to another traumatic event involving Floyd, which somehow provided a split-second of relief. Ultimately, she managed to either release his weight or escape. His actions were reprehensible, and he should be held accountable for his violent and cruel behavior.
Implications and Management
The feeling of suffocation, whether physical or psychological, can have serious implications on one's mental and physical health. It is important to address these symptoms and seek professional help. Therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can be effective in managing anxiety and panic disorders. Additionally, learning relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and progressive muscle relaxation can help in controlling these symptoms.
Conclusion
The sensation of suffocation is a complex experience that involves both physical and psychological components. Understanding and managing these symptoms is crucial for improving one's quality of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help and support.