"[The] Power that brought us to this program is still with us and will continue to guide us if we allow it."
Basic Text, p. 27
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Ever had a panic attack? Everywhere we turn, lifes demands overwhelm us. We're paralyzed, and we don't know what to do about it. How do we break an anxiety attack?
First, we stop. We can't deal with everything at once, so we stop for a moment to let things settle. Then we take a spot inventory of the things that are bothering us. We examine each item, asking ourselves this question: "How important is it, really?" In most cases, we'll find that most of our fears and concerns don't need our immediate attention. We can put those aside, and focus on the issues that really need to be resolved right away.
Then we stop again and ask ourselves, "Who's in control here, anyway?" This helps remind us that our Higher Power is in control. We seek our Higher Powers will for the situation, whatever it is. We can do this in any number of ways: through prayer, talks with our sponsor or NA friends, or by attending a meeting and asking others to share their experience. When our Higher Powers will becomes clear to us, we pray for the ability to carry it out. Finally, we take action.
Anxiety attacks need not paralyze us. We can utilize the resources of the NA program to deal with anything that comes our way.
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Just for today: My Higher Power has not brought me all this way in recovery only to abandon me! When anxiety strikes, I will take specific steps to seek God's continuing care and guidance.
"Everywhere we turn, lifes demands overwhelm us. We're paralyzed, and we don't know what to do about it."
That looks heavy - as though people are at life's mercy. Life isn't merciful - people can be if they choose.
I used to take 6mg of ER Xanax a day for anxiety. Today, instead of hoping I won't be hit by an anxiety attack, I have a sit down with my HP and get in alignment with the day before I even leave the house. It's helped immensely.
