View Full Version : Honest feedback about the CBT4PANIC programme
Hi everyone
Hopefully you all may have noticed the revised sticky at the top of this page explaining the changes to the CBT programme recommended here at nomorepanic
The programme has already helped a lot of members on the forum but to be honest I am still confused at why more people don't try it out. There are lots of people here discussing CBT, many are on long waiting lists for treatment and so on.
Yet here is a professional CBT programme which can be tried right now - completely free for 30 days - books, videos, audios, and professional support and still many people are reluctant to give it a try.
I naively imagined that people would be falling over themselves to get such a chance.
I would be extremely grateful to anyone if they could share their feelings about the programme - good or bad. The bottom line is I want to help people recover but first I need to know how to convince people that this is a genuine programme well worth trying.
many thanks in advance for any help you can give. :)
Robin Hall (co-author of CBT4PANIC)
eight days a week
09-10-11, 20:32
A very interesting post, thank you :)
I would love to try the course and to help out. The problem is that I'm suffering so much with depression at the moment...my motivation to get on with things (even that will help me) is very low right now...
But, I will try to try.
Hi
Thanks for the reply - if you are also suffering from anxiety/panic you can very easily become depressed - it's very understandable - and once the anxiety is under control the depression can come down.
CBT4PANIC mostly deals with panic disorder and agoraphobia. It is extremely easy to follow the programme because it uses a lot of cartoons and videobooks (the therapist actually takes you through the books in a series of videos)
If you'd like to know more please feel free to ask
Robin
Hi Everyone
Was just reading my first post and thinking that maybe I worded it incorrectly.
It may read that I am looking for feedback on the programme itself
I am actually looking for feedback on why people may not be willing to try the programme in the first place - if you have anxiety and are curious about CBT is there a reason why you may be reluctant to try CBT4PANIC.
This would help me make changes that might help more people.
Many thanks
Robin
Mr.Jitters
12-10-11, 18:26
Hey Robin,
To answer the intended question, I was very reluctant to try CBT4PANIC because most of us are all too familiar with the Linden Method, Panic Away, etc. I'm one of those shameful individuals who was bitten, and is now twice shy. I did initially look at the CBT4PANIC website through this forum, but dismissed it as being in the same vein as the aforementioned.
Despite the fact that it's a fraction of the price of these other... things, cost is prohibitive as anxiety has left me housebound and unable to work for a long time.
With the offer of the 30 day free trial, and the three monthly instalments, I actually requested that my partner order the programme for me on trial, and if it was good, they, and my family would group together and pay for it as a birthday present for me.
To answer the unintended question, I got the programme 3 days ago and have worked through it all, cover to cover of each workbook, every video, and every audio. I've now started seriously using workbook one, and will move on to workbook 2 when it's all sunk in.
Today, I sat through an entire day of college and even managed to get on a bus home by myself, despite months of struggling through a relapse into panic and agoraphobia. I left my Valium at home, and floated through the panic with just the .pdf workbook to fall back on. Everyone has noticed the difference in me, and everyone is really excited for me.
CBT has failed for me before, because of a difficult and expensive relationship with my therapist. Group therapy was successful, but funding was withdrawn after a few sessions. I've worked through the Linden Method and gotten much worse, while Mr. Linden got much richer.
The approach of this programme is very different to that of others. There are no ridiculous time limits, it encourages you to make your own SMART targets, and there aren't 12 or more complicated steps involved. The videos together with the workbooks mean that it's almost like having a therapist there with you, but the whole course is the same price as a single session in my area. The illustrations are amazing, and I've actually found myself giggling as I remember them while feeling flashes of panic.
I'll definitely be recommending this, and would like to say thank you.
If I didn't have the charity of loved ones to fall back on, I do feel that the two factors that would stop me from trying the programme would be the fear that it's just like other programmes out there, and the payment options. Possibly some tasters of the course and a longer payment plan option would convince me, in that case.
Kam
In my view, I think to myself at first, Yes this may be what I need to help me on my way...and then my anxiety goes no no no! and I suddenly feel better. This has happened a number of times when confronted with a new anxiety technique.
Also, I genuinely can't "get round" to these things, I'm far to wrapped up in myself to help myself most of the time. If that makes sense.
Can I ask, is it non complicated and fast to sign up to? Or are there loads of details and forms and terms and conditions to do?
Mr.Jitters
12-10-11, 22:04
From personal experience, it's not complicated to sign up to. Took me around a minute after figuring out to click the Union Flag to change it to GBP before ordering, and had the email with my login details for the programme immediately. The workbooks are really easy to follow, and the videos that compliment it.
Hi Mr Jitters
Thank you for the feedback - I was starting to wonder if anyone was going to reply - and fantastic that the programme is working for you - that's all that matters :)
I had guessed that people may be wary about 'another' online anxiety programme but was hoping that NMPs endorsement would put minds at rest.
This forum have been very brave to back this knowing that people may be up in arms but they are backing it for good reason - it's a professional programme - they tested it and like yourself they found that it really does work.
Anyway - thanks again for sharing your experience with the programme and I will keep your suggestions in mind. Good luck with the rest of the books and feel free to ask questions.
Cheers
Robin
Pancho - I hope you give it a try - it's easy to access and very very easy to follow - I had panic disorder myself so I do understand how hard it is to concentrate or get motivated. Now that you know that others here are finding it helpful what have you got to lose. :)
nomorepanic
12-10-11, 22:31
We at NMP are supporting Robin all the way with this programme as it really is fantastic and Robin has made it as cheap as possible for everyone.
Robin kindly donates some money each time you purchase his programme through the correct link that is in his post on here as well so he is also giving back to the members on NMP by supporting the running costs.
Thanks Robin
Looks good, i might give it a go, as im always trying to read info to help myself with my anxiety and panic attacks
Dizzy_Dave
13-10-11, 13:09
Early days for me yet with Robins course, but instantly I like the easy to follow format, and loads of videos and work books. I can't concentrate for long, but you can do as much or as little as you wish from what I can see.
I'll give it a go then :)
eight days a week
13-10-11, 19:27
I'm very interested Robin and would like to give it a go (motivation- sapping depression allowing). How long does the course take? I have a month before I start a psychotherapy group, and been told not to pursue CBT once I've started :(
We at NMP are supporting Robin all the way with this programme as it really is fantastic and Robin has made it as cheap as possible for everyone.
Robin kindly donates some money each time you purchase his programme through the correct link that is in his post on here as well so he is also giving back to the members on NMP by supporting the running costs.
Thanks Robin
What a ringing endorsement, and a win-win for Robin and NMP :)
Hi Pancho and 8days
That's great that you are wanting to give it a go - I hope it works for you as well as it is working for others.
The time it takes to work through the programme can depend on the severity of the disorder and the length of time you have had it. But many people report feeling a lot better right from the start because of the way everything is explained. I'm sure others can verify this.
Best of luck with it and please let everyone know how you get on
Cheers
Robin
I am interested, particularly in light of Mr Jitters' comments above, but reluctant to commit myself to anything, even if free for a 30 day trial. As a rather cynical consumer I would also have to say that my first response would be 'is there a catch?' I am wary, eg, of missing the 30 day limit, and finding myself having to pay in full; something I can ill afford to do right now. Being an anxious person the concept of committing to something which I might well 'fail' at or perhaps find ineffective make it doubly daunting (and that is no reflection on this particular programme - my brief forays into CBT in the past have been largely unhelpful, for me. I find it too simplistic, and seem rather strangely to have difficulty differentiating between thoughts and feelings, and often even identifying any thoughts. All of which leads me to feeling frustrated and cross with myself! And feeds in to an underlying 'core' belief. Don't get me started on the thought of effectively 'challenging' that!!!). Having said that, I am desperate to find something which would make me tolerate my anxiety and panic more, as I think this would be a big step for me (I loathe the feeling of being anxious and panicky. I have a presentation to give next week the thought of which simply terrifies me. I doubt, at this stage, whether I'll be physically capable of even speaking for the designated 10 minutes- I suffer really badly from 'performance' anxiety and I tremble, sweat, my mouth dries up, I develop a stutter, etc, etc. Nothing I have tried in the past has helped with this. At all. And medication barely takes the edge of it.) I would be interested to find out how the programme would tackle such a difficulty.
Many thanks.
Hi
I really appreciate the in depth reply - it is very helpful for me to hear how people feel about the programme - especially those who are reluctant to try it
With regards missing the 30 day limit - you will know as soon as you download the programme whether you will like it or not - it will be quite obvious - as well as that you can opt to pay over 3 months which makes the first payment very small - and again you can cancel or get a refund within 60 days (2 months)
'Is there a catch' - I can understand your concern - but keep in mind that many people on nomorepanic endorse this - including Nicola the administrator. I am a professional Cognitive Therapist - not a salesman.
It is very helpful also that you said that you are worried that you might 'fail' at this - that is such an important point for me to consider when trying to help people. I can relate to that feeling from my own experience with panic. I appreciate that you haven't had success with CBT in the past but if you keep in mind that I myself suffered from sever panic disorder with agoraphobia many years ago you may feel more reassured that this programme may relate to you more than the CBT you have had so far.
I can truly say that the programme will definitely give you many many skills that will help reduce your anxiety.
As for the performance anxiety - I really can relate to this - years ago I couldn't even introduce myself to a group of people without losing control of my nerves - my lip would tremble, and my mind would go blank - it's a truly horrible experience. Now I can give lectures - purely because I used CBT with the problem. CBT4PANIC doesn't directly deal with fear of public speaking but it will certainly take you in the right direction and the Mindfulness book will help a lot.
The best way to overcome public speaking fear is through graduated exposure (after you have learned various skills) but since you only have a week I will give you a few things that will help
1 Restructure your worst thoughts - even just take the edge off them - ie "I will freeze and go blank and everyone will think I am stupid"
Imagine you were talking to a friend and you were giving them a more 'balanced' point of view
"Yes you might freeze but then again you might be ok - and lots of people feel very anxious doing presentations so if you do freeze there will be some people who will empathize with you - and even if people notice they will forget about it soon enough - people are too worried about their own lives to constantly think of you. The fact is that it WILL be over in 10 minutes and in a few days it will all be forgotten - everything passes and fades.. etc etc
Some people even like to 'play' with the fears - ridiculize them - "ok imagine I go blank and everyone laughs and run out of the room and then they take out an ad in the newspaper and the headlines next day read "man goes blank during presentation!!" and everyone who meets me in the street points at me and I leave the country and disguise myself as a shoe salesman and .......
Sometimes making it this silly takes the edge off - we can smile
Do this with ALL your thoughts - write them down - restructure them to more 'balanced' thoughts and read them every day - this will calm you down
2. Instead of 'rehearsing' disaster every time you think about the presentation 'rehearse' (imaginally) doing ok - as you might well do - picture yourself talking ok - even smiling - and imagine people listening and then it finishes. EVERY time your mind starts to rehearse the worst - change the images to doing ok. If you rehearse disaster you prep your mind to feel anxious - if you rehearse doing ok (just ok is fine) then your mind becomes conditioned to feeling ok with the idea of the presentation
3. Practice some 'Mindfulness' - Bring your attention out from your mind and into your surroundings - become aware of the room, sounds, smells, colours, textures - don't judge anything - simply be aware - and ALLOW anxious thoughts to exist too - that's ok - just see that thoughts aren't the whole story - when we focus only on thoughts we feel overwhelmed - but when we see an object or hear a sound we have less focus on the anxious thought - it's a simple equation
A helpful technique DURING the presentation is to every now and then bring your attention to wiggling your toes - because they are the furthest point in the body from the brain this can stop us focussing on worry and help to 'ground us'
4. Slow down by HALF - when we are anxious we tend to speed up so if we try to slow down by half it actually makes us talk at a normal rate. Take breaths in between sentences.
5. This week remind yourself over and over that it is 'just people' in the presentation room - not dangerous animals. Yes some may judge - but some won't care at all and you are in no actual physical danger so the fight or flight in your body is not required.
I hope that can be of some help - as I said before this problem needs a course of CBT but hopefully these few tips will help for the coming week.
And I hope this reply has helped answer your questions about CBT4PANIC - thanks again for your feedback - it is much appreciated
Cheers
Robin
Robin,
Thank you so much for your reply. It is tremendously helpful and reassuring as well as very kind and generous of you to offer these tips and advice. The way you have described it makes more sense to me I think and what resonates most is the fact that it clearly has helped you, to the extent that you can now give public lectures! The thought of being able to 'master' anxiety and panic to allow yourself to speak (voluntarily!) in public gives me real hope. So thank you. I will practice the techniques you mention over the next few days and will genuinely re-consider signing up to the programme after the presentation next week. I 'worry' about taking too much on, and then failing, as I said. Bad habit of buying self-help books, etc. and never reading them. But you have given me something tangible to work with here and it will give me pause for thought over the next few days as I prepare for this presentation. Thanks!
Hi
Glad I could be of help - remember it is important to write the thoughts down - restructure them to more 'balanced' thoughts - and the read the EVERY day - and especially when you are starting to feel anxious and rehearse disaster - you are simply changing your conditioned response to this situation.
Best of luck
Robin
I thought everyone might like to see some of the feedback from members of nomorepanic about CBT4PANIC. Thanks to everyone who was kind enough to give the feedback and I hope you are all still working with the programme.
If anyone has any questions or any difficulties please feel free to ask.
Robin
FEEDBACK FROM MEMBERS OF NOMOREPANIC
FINALLY I’VE FOUND SOMETHING THAT REALLY MAKES SENSE TO ME
“I’ve started reading and find it all so easy to follow and understand. I’ve also already discovered that I’ve always had the wrong approach to panic and anxiety – all these years of searching, thinking I’d discovered the answer, only to fall back into the pit again and again – now finally I’ve found something that really makes sense to me. Thank you so much.”
– Becky
IT’S BEEN WRITTEN BY SOMEONE WHO UNDERSTANDS BECAUSE THEY’VE BEEN THROUGH IT
“Just read the handbook that arrived this morning. I think it’s BRILLIANT. We know it’s been written by someone who understands because they’ve been through it, it explains all your symptoms which I know will be very helpful to a lot of people, you only need to look at the health anxiety posts on here. I also particularly like that it’s handbag size, with a plain cover. I’m sure it will go everywhere with me and I look forward to putting the coping strategies into practice. Thank you so much Robin!”
– Tish
I’M ALREADY FEELING BETTER
“I’ve read the first ebook now and I’m already feeling a bit better. I loved the little injections of humour and found myself laughing along at some of it in agreement. The part that has helped me most so far is your explanations on page 16 about how and why the symptoms are caused. In the past I’ve known that they were anxiety symptoms but not why they happened and I found it harder to convince myself of the reality. Knowing why they are happening helps me understand further. Thats something I’d not seen before.”
– Emz
I AM SO GLAD I STARTED THIS COURSE
“I have to say that i am so glad i started this course, i’m not even half way through as i have had so many personal problems to deal with. But i would never have got through an hour and a half at a solicitors today without the tools i needed from this course and the support i received from Robin.
I’ll openly on this forum Thank him for helping me get through today as for once i don’t fear the panics anymore, i’m agoraphobic and an hour and a half is such a long time to sit in anyones office especially when i know i’ve got to do it all again next week.
Well done Robin.”
- Diane07
FOR THE FIRST TIME I HAD INSTANT UNDERSTANDING
“It was easy to read and the cartoons made it so friendly. In fact once I started I couldn’t stop and I carry the little booklet (the condensed version of the course) around with me in my handbag so I can refer to it whenever necessary.
I’ve had anxiety and panic disorder for 18 years and have been through many sessions of counselling and research in my search for recovery.
For the first time I had instant understanding which has given me control over my disorder. My husband has remarked at what a change there is in me lately as my fears are less and my confidence is growing daily.
I also appreciate that the author, Robin is willing to correspond with me when I have queries. He has really put himself out to help fellow sufferers. I would recommend this course to anyone suffering from this disorder, it’s been a life-saver for me!
Thank you.”
- Becky000
THOROUGHLY RECOMMEND IT TO ANYONE
“Ditto to what the others have said! i am halfway through the programme and it is so easy to follow and friendly, the cartoons are great and Robin is lovely. Thoroughly recommend it to anyone.”
- mabelthemini
BESIDES ONE OTHER BOOK THIS HAS BEEN THE ONLY THING THAT HAS EVER HELPED
“I loved it. I found the comics so delightful. I could relate so much to the characters. It’s easy to read and understand. It’s well worth printing out the ebooks.
The mistakes I made was trying to go through it too fast and not sticking with it. But it did help me when I was having actual panic attacks. There is a panic attack page which you fill out. You write down your thoughts and feels and it really helped me see how I was being irrational. It helped me really see all the awful thoughts I was having and how 99% of my what if’s had a 1% of actually happening to me.
I do hope to restart it and put in more efort in this time. I’ve had anxiety a good 12 years or more now. I have read countless amounts of self-help books, besides one other book, this has been the only other thing that has actually help me. I would highly recommend this to anyone.”
- mishel
IT JUST CLICKED WITH ME
“It really helped me to the point that i am working with the public again, i never thought i would be able to do that again ever, Robin is a very understanding and supportive guy, his program i felt, was easy to understand, it just clicked with me.
Just try and put all into the therapy, it wasn’t easy at first and i did have a few hurdles to get over, but i did it and my life is a very different one now, just stick with it and i am sure you will do as well as i did.”
- diane07
GREAT PROGRAM
“hey, just to let you know, great program. The small book is great to read makes you feel like going to do all the things you don’t want to do.
so i’ll be trying more things next week”
- bull50
I AM SO HAPPY AT THE MOMENT
“Stick with it bull, I am working so many hours now and doing things that i never thought possible again.
I am going further and pushing myself further each day, can’t believe how different my life is now, just remember baby steps and keep doing them each day.
I am so happy at the moment, no anx at all. Stick with it hun.”
- diane07
BRING IT ON PANIC
“So I’ve read through 2 lessons now of the CBT4PANIC course. Last night I had my first PA since starting this course (about 2 weeks). I woke up and felt disorientated and had a racing heart. Normally I would get up go down stairs and get a glass of water and try to slow my breathing, then read my book until everything settles back down again. This normally takes about 1 hour and I feel drained at the end of it. This time around I thought ‘YES’ a chance to try out the technique from CBT4PANIC, you need to just let it happen feel the symptoms as an observer and be aware of your surroundings.
Well it worked my heart rate returned to normal in a couple of minutes, I didn’t feel terrible afterwards in fact I felt back to normal in less than 10 minutes. Its the funny little pictures of the Bloke panicking in CBT4PANIC I keep thinking of, they really help you lose your fear.”
- mohc
[B]I’M FINALLY HAVING RESULTS WITH CBT4PANIC
“I am a single mother of a school aged child and I don’t have time for this and I want my life back. I’ve done the three “big” commercial anxiety programs and I’m finally having some results with CBT4panic.”
- Threnners
I HAVE TO SAY THE VIDEOS ARE BRILLIANT
“Just bought the online package last night. Already watched the first few videos and I have to say they are brilliant. Looking forward to doing more today. Starting cbt on Thursday with a one to one but I think this will contribute significantly to my recovery too. Worth a look everyone xx”
- LucyLiz
I STARTED TO FEEL BETTER IMMEDIATELY
Hi Robin
I got your message on the NMP site.
I’m so sorry that I haven’t been in touch since I received the course.
Firstly, yes, I am keeping warm – it’s summer here in South Africa – so actually I’m too warm!
Anyway, I must just tell you that from the first time I read over your CBT course I was hooked. Before I’d even attempted any of the exposure exercises everything just clicked for me. I started to feel better immediately. I think it’s because I finally understand and feel in control at last. I’m not scared of it anymore – and this after 18 years. Such a relief!
I received your little booklet in the post and I take it everywhere with me and whenever I have a few spare minutes I read something in it. Just to keep reminding myself until it’s completely familiar.
I started my support group last week and although there’s only a few of us I was able to share what I’d learnt and there was a lot of interest. Although most of the people who turned up suffer from depression and not anxiety so I wasn’t able to share as much as I’d hoped to.
I’ve started reading your Mindfulness book and am enjoying that too.
Thanks again Robin, for a very well written and easy-to-understand course.
I have no negative criticism to offer at all and am just so grateful for what you’ve given me – freedom from anxiety!
Best regards
Becky
I DEFO SEE A MAJOR IMPROVEMENT DOWN TO YOUR PROGRAMME
Hi Robin,
Since last week (when i last msgd you) i have had a good week!!!! Even managed to travel to london on a train for work and back!!!!! seem to just be having my problems on a weekend, don’t know whether its because i’m not in my monday to friday working routine!!! yes its hard, but i defo can see a major improvement down to your programme!!! Thank you so much for this opportunity, do you mind me giving you a weekly update like this?
PJH1981
I WOULD RECOMMEND HIGHLY!
Hi Robin,
I cannot fault your books (I have completed 1-2 so far), clear, easy to understand and relate to, funny at times which is needed… but most importantly I am already using the skills learnt…and actually I am looking forward to putting this into practice by ignoring my next panic attack. I took my notes to a hairdressing trip and smiled (as you recommended) through the appointment (although I would rather have teeth pulled than hair cut).
It has also made me realise one very important thing – yes I can tackle my panic attacks but I really need to tackle the thing that caused them in the first place
All in all – I would recommend highly! now onto book 3.
Kind regards
Ambers
YOUR BOOKS CONFIRMED MY INNER BELIEFS
Hi Robin,
In answer to your questions – I think I am getting a hold on the general panic attacks and I agree that your books so far have helped a great deal. I have had 4 CBT sessions previously but was uncomfortable by a few things and never stuck it out. I think I knew subconsciously that by avoiding PA it made it worse. I had a bad attack at work once but begged my colleagues to let me stay in the office – I remember telling them that if they sent me home it would be another place I would avoid. Your books confirmed my inner beliefs which were being blocked by the physical panic (or the bit which I could see, hear and feel).
If I am honest – I wasn’t sure about signing up when you advertised, but I trusted the admin staff on here to have vetted you and your product first.
Robin – you sound like a good honest person and I so hope this is a success.
Thank you
Ambers
JUST READING THEM HAS ENABLED ME TO CALM DOWN
Hi Robin, thank you so much for your work books. Just reading them has enabled me to calm down and put things into perspective and I am just about to go out and practice.
I have just been reading through some transcripts of a conversation between yourself and a client and I was struck by your ability to cut through all the confusing ‘stuff’ that surrounds panic and really get to the core of the problem.
Thank you,
Karina
I’VE READ ABOUT FIGHT OR FLIGHT BUT NEVER ANYTHING THAT EXPLAINS THEM THE WAY YOU HAVE
I’ve read about fight or flight symptoms over and over but never anything that explains them the way you have. The information so far really surpasses the information that the local CBT place that the doctor sent me too. I’m looking forward to reading the rest.
Thanks
- emz
VERY IMPRESSED WITH WHAT I’VE SEEN
Very impressed with what I’ve seen! Haven’t read all the books yet but the ones I have are really good! I have been through CBT and I think its a great option! I would have preferred it to going face to face!!! And its a great idea to have a blank cover!!! So noone will know what you are reading!!!
The website is great too! Easy to navigate.
mabel
I MANAGED TO GO TO A HUGE SHOPPING CENTRE THIS MORNING
Hi Robin,
I have been studying book 1 and 2 and trying to implement them into my life, so far so good, i am practicing not to be afraid of having a panic attack etc and they have died down over this week, to the point where i didnt have any yesterday. I managed to go to a huge shopping centre this morning too, had a bit of anticipatory anxiety, but nothing major, havent felt too good this afternoon so far but i keep telling my self the stuff you mention in the pack, thanks.
PJH1981
THE WEE BOOK IS JUST PERFECT IN MY OPINION
Hi robin ! Just received your wee book today , Have to say i was having a bad day before i sat down and read through it , even though i have been going through this for the past nine years on and off and know what is happening and how and what to do to get through it , it did put me in a better frame of mind.
In the past i have read many books and bought a few miracle cures ! Maybe it worked for some people, lets face it everybody is different ! I think for most people who go through this too much information can be quite frustrating, some of the books, web sites etc babble on too much and hit you with too much of the does and donts and whys and why nots, and if i hear the caveman theory once more i’ll scream,, lol,,. For someone just experiencing panic or anxiety for the first unfortunate time i suppose they do need all the help and info they can get on it . The wee book you sent is just perfect in my opinion ! Simple and straight to the point and easy to take in. If i can help in any way don’t hesitate to ask any questions.
shorty1969
WITH THESE BOOKS I KNOW I WILL BEAT IT NOT JUST FOR A FEW MONTHS BUT FOREVER
many thanks Robin,
i don’t tend to fear the panic when its actually happening, so thats a good thing, i just tell my self its a mistake or its just adrenaline, or most times now i just go about what ever i’m doing whilst it is happening, i just need to practice to not fear having one!!!! cuz i do still find myself thinking “i hope i don’t have a panic” etc instead of thinking “if i have a panic, who cares, its just adrenaline”, i am finding this the hardest part, but with these books and practice, i know i will beat it, not just a for a few months (i went months without a single panic attack then it all came back again from one thought in my head), but forever, thanks again for you time and everything you’re doing for people like me.
Regards
PJH1981
AMAZED AT HOW MUCH INFO WAS PUT INTO THIS
Hi just to let you know the download worked fine (i was doing it wrong) Also just read booklet 1 and was amazed at how much info was put into this, I have had cbt before but not with as much info as this, I am really impressed with the 1st book, Also i thought the cartoon characters were great even made me smile which believe me i don’t do a lot of at the moment, i will be reading book 2 and will let you know what i think. Thanks -
lisa12
THE BOOKS ARE AMAZING SO FAR
I’m very suspicious of buying from unknown websites, as 1000’s offer various cures for anxiety, BUT your website along with the book previews really intrigued me.
What appealed to me most were the comic style books. As its very different, I enjoy art and comics and I like the upbeat, happy, fun appeal of yours.
I can really relate to the characters, I find them quite amusing, and I guess it’s a good thing to be able to laugh at yourself and the characters in the book.
Over all I think you have a winner - the books are amazing so far
- mishel
YOUR EBOOKS ARE SO DOWN TO EARTH AND HONEST
Over the years i have seen many cbt sites and studied them, and in all honesty this has to be one of the best, i love the way you do not concentrate on too many of the symptoms, it doesn’t help me to read too many of them, i love the positivity on how you have put in bold some of the words that need to stick……………
More importantly, i believe what you are telling me is true, i’m not stupid, your ebooks are so down to earth and honest and that much more than anything is so important.
Sometimes it is scary and i don’t want to take on what you are asking me to do, but i know the key to the cure is doing exactly what you are asking me.
I’m on a mission to succeed and then i can help promote your site.
ps. i was so made up to read that you mentioned Dr Claire Weekes, that alone shows it isn’t spam or just on a mission to sell something…………..
well done -
diane07
NOWHERE HAS IT EVER BEEN EXPLAINED TO ME WHY WE PANIC LIKE YOU HAVE
Hi Robin
The audios are fantastic, very clearly spoken, soft gentle voice, sound quality was fab.
I love the audio “During a Panic Attack” i actually believe that would stop me fearing the feelings of panic if i was out.
And after listening to workbook 1 part 1, now this bit really did please me, because nowhere has it ever been explained to me on why we panic like you have.
You see its no good someone telling me that i panic because of adrenaline blah blah blah, i have always wondered why i can just be sitting there, no anxiety whatsoever and then WHAM! it hits me out of the blue.
And that is what you have just explained to me very clearly and somehow i don’t feel as though i’m going to be as scared anymore when the panic comes like that because now i know why.
Forgot to say, i got my booklet, me and nic were saying how good it was, plus, it fits in our handbags, not many like that about. The ebooks are easy to read, i don’t find them a chore, plus because you have done the cartoon pics sometimes reading the parts in the balloon alone jogs everything in my memory, i see the panic as in a little devil sitting on my shoulder telling me to run, only now i’m not so scared of him, as i know if i don’t fear him he’ll get bored and disappear, its my easy way of accepting panic.
went out in my car for the first time in two weeks on my own and went to the post office i’ve been dreading going to since i moved here, about 15 kids outside and about 20 in the queue and i was at the back just as i felt that little wave of fear i stopped and invited it in and guess what?
A BIG FAT NOTHING
onwards and upwards i’m going to start my walk tomorrow threw these welsh fields, i’ll start slow and work my way up, i’m going to set myself targets and not turn back even if i have panic all the way there and back.
sorry for rambling but i am that pleased i just wanted to share, i haven’t even got on to workbook 4 yet.
Think that audio brainwashed me
diane07
um hi
i have only just been to my doctors about 'my feelings'.
told me it depression and anxiety etc, filled in a questionnaire, got a number to ring for cbt but still having private counselling at moment which have been since feb. also gave me prescription for citalopram.
i guess im scared of anyone finding out as i am with anything at mo, the tablets and the side effects, explaining them if ppl quered, going to conselling in private which is hard etc.
Hi
I have sent you a pm
Please keep in mind that anxiety and depression are extremely common
1 in 4 British adults experience at least one diagnosable mental health problem in any one year, and 1 in 6 experiences this at any given time.
Although mental disorders are widespread, serious cases are concentrated among a relatively small proportion of people who experience more than one mental health problem.
It is estimated that approximately 450 million people worldwide have a mental health problem.
Mixed anxiety and depression is the most common mental disorder in Britain
So please remember that 1 in 4 of the people you are not wanting to know about your problem are also facing difficulties of their own.
You are not alone and will get great support on this site.
Robin
I wanted to try it, but the site wont accept my paypal or i am doing something wrong. Very frustrating for me.
nomorepanic
09-11-11, 21:29
Mindful - I am sure Robin will be along to help out very soon
Yes, he has been in touch, very helpful thankyou :)
Hi Robin
I hope you can give me an overall honest answer weather your program can help me or if any other readers can indeed give me advice or help.
Ive always suffered with anxiety attacks and intrusive thoughts but recently it has interrupted with my work life. My problem is that I am constantly having thoughts that i am going to get an anxiety attack and my mind is bombarded with these thoughts that it eventually brings the anxiety symtoms of heart palpitations and sweat etc.
The main problems is that both the obsessive thoughts and anxiety symptoms means I lose my focus and concentration and therefore work becomes harder. I then worry that If it disrupts my work I may lose my job and the worries associated with that, so it becomes a full on cycle as this also brings on anxiety.
To give you a scenario, lets just say that I am in the middle of writing an important report, I cannot just think like a normal person and all my thoughts are going to that report. My mind will try and test me and will say if you get anxiety you wont be able to finish this report, so it will constantly give me thoughts of failing the report which in turn leads the anxiety symptoms. The problem is that these constant thoughts and my mind always wanting to think these thoughts leads me to losing concentration and the anxiety also contributes to this as well.
I have seen therapists and the common agreement is that I should accept the thoughts and anxiety as It will go away. I can accept the anxiety symtoms and live with it but the fact that the anxiety leads to a loss of focus on my work is the difficult part. Also when i accept the thoughts, because thats all that goes through my mind, again that disrupts my patterns of thought.
Please let me know if your program can help and breifly how it can help.
Many Thanks for your time
ESH
Hi ESH
What you are describing is called 'Anticipatory Anxiety' which is a very common problem with Panic Attacks
It actually makes a lot of sense from your point of view - I take it you have had one or several panic attacks - which are incredibly frightening. It is very understandable and actually quite logical that you will be quite worried that you will have this experience again. This worry creates a continuous low level of anxiety which will become exaggerated if you are confronted with any situation which you feel will be affected BY the anxiety. So the anxiety increases. If this happens many times you get caught in a cycle of fear.
The therapists advice is true but you can only do this if you have a thorough understanding of why you panic, what maintains it and a set of skills to HELP you 'accept' the feelings. Just blindly accepting them is useless because in the back of our mind we still fear them. Understanding is required.
I assure you that CBT4PANIC will give you the understanding, the skills AND more essentially how to implement the understanding and skills so that you can be free of the cycles of fear for good. The programme is free for 30 days - you don't have much to lose - it's very easy to follow - it won't trigger any anxiety - it's a fun read using cartoons to illustrate the concepts and if you look at what people are saying on nomorepanic - it WORKS :-)
If you give it a try please let everyone know how you get on
Robin
Hi Robin
I recently bought the CBT4PANIC programme. I haven't had chance to have an in-depth go at it, but what I've seen is really good, and the little booklet is brilliant! Very handy to have it all to hand like that, easy to read, makes a lot of sense and serious but light-hearted at the same time.
Would definitely recommend it. I've just started a new job so am mega busy but am hoping to get a good start on the programme asap.
Thanks, and good luck to anyone else who buys it.
Hi Lizzie
Glad you like the look of the programme so far - always a good sign :)
I know it's going to help you a lot once you start working on it.
best of luck with it and remember I'm here to help every step of the way.
Robin
Hi Lizzie
Just wondered if you had been able to get started yet. Often the biggest obstacle people with panic have to face is 'getting started' - sometimes people feel that if they aren't 'too bad' at the moment they don't want to 'rock the boat' by reading anything about recovery.
I would like to assure everyone that CBT4PANIC is designed to be as least anxiety provoking as possible - in fact it's a fun read.
Panic disorder is VERY treatable - even if you just read the books for a few weeks you will feel more confident that you can start the journey of recovery.
Best of luck
Robin
Half the battle with anxiety-panic is understanding what is happening and why. The CBT4PANIC programme explains this very well. Its an easy read, which makes it relatively easy to remember what you've read which is a must when you have an anxious mind! It also provides some surprising laughs along the way, i found myself giggling as i read the comic strips, one of those '' Its funny cos its true'' scenario's. The whole programme is very informative without being too overbearing. I was actually sad to finish reading the books :ohmy:
The other half of the battle is taking what you've learnt and putting it to practice, now this is where we have to be brave, ( aren't we all already? I think so! ) but we have to dig a little further, remember what we learnt, remember the cartoon strips we saw, challenge our own personal anxiety-panic. This does take practice and patience, its also incredibly hard to let go and change your whole thinking pattern. Its early days for me with the CBT4PANIC programme but i would recommend this to anyone out there who is stuck in that awful ''fear of the fear'' situation.
Hi Robin
Yes, I've read through the first workbook. Reading about anxiety doesn't (touch wood!) make my anxiety worse, and what I've read is very easy to read and understand, and quite lighthearted (if you know what I mean).
Will keep you updated, thanks for the support.
Hi Lizzie
So glad that you are enjoying the programme so far - I am getting a lot of feedback from people who are having great success with it - which makes it all worthwhile
Please keep us updated with your recovery
Robin
Thought i'd just give an update as to how i'm getting along.
For the first time in years this week i took my little girl to school on my own :yahoo:
Just thought i'd hijack this thread to share it, i am absolutely buzzing, no panic, no anx and the look on my little girls face because i was taking her is one memory that i will cherish forever.
Go Di Go :yahoo:
Congratulations Diane, that's amazing! Well done you! :yesyes::yahoo:
Can I ask about how others that have started the programme are getting on now?
I joined today and read the first two books back to back, then went down to my mums and started trying to implement them. :rolleyes: I'd read the dialogue about how one would react (Calming self talk, then catastrophising, then calming self talk, repeat.) with the techniques. Then guess what happened? I'm like a bloomin sponge, I read/see/hear it and then it's factual.
I must admit, when I was reading the books they really helped me understand, specially about the anticipatory anxiety and how that releases a constant low level adrenalin. Then I went downstairs to my mums and totally forgot all the helpful bits and ended up taking a diazepam. :emot-fail: I must get a printer!
I find that I can manage a wave of mild to medium panic, then I don't have confidence that I can 'keep up' not having another panic. (By jove, have I just figured out that's anticipatory anxiety?!)
Also, I find the thought of accepting panic very, very scary. I have had panic attacks for 26 years, anxiety problems for longer, so it's very hard to just suddenly accept them! I guess though I should read through all the books first before trying anything out.
I'm very tired too so hope I've made sense, I think I'd best got to bed! :D
Well done again Diane, that really is wonderful. :emot-woot:
Hi Zengarden
You are doing well even to have just begun to read the books - it will take time - no one breaks the cycles of panic overnight.
Initially we imagine that 'accepting' the sensations means we should feel 'ok' whilst doing so - because we seek a technique that will help us to stop feeling so bad - makes sense.
Actually 'acceptance' is more about 'not reisisting' - which is causing us to release more adrenaline - and our resistance is compounding the belief in our mind that we are in serious danger.
So to start with it's a matter of experimentation - understand why panic arise - what keeps it going - then learn skills to help you to stop thinking and behaving in ways that ironically increase the anxiety.
If you 'accept' in order to 'stop' the feelings it's not acceptance - if you see what i mean
But I know that the overridding desire is to stop the feelings - it's understandable - I did it myself for a long long time.
So to begin with just experiment with the idea of accepting rather than resisting the feelings - but make sure you know WHY you are doing this - I read many posts where people say to accept the sensations but unless you know why and how this is a very scary proposition.
And don't expect 'acceptance' to immediately stop the sensations. Over time everything will become less and less until panic no longer arises but to start with acceptance means allowing a certain amount of anxiety to exist while you attempt to refrain from adding further misinterpretation and catastrophisation.
Read the first two workbooks very carefully and wtach the videos again and again until it all makes more sense - then you will understand how acceptance works.
and accept the fact that you cant accept - keep letting go - don't be hard on yourself :)
You are doing well - keep at it
Robin
Thought i'd just give an update as to how i'm getting along.
For the first time in years this week i took my little girl to school on my own :yahoo:
Just thought i'd hijack this thread to share it, i am absolutely buzzing, no panic, no anx and the look on my little girls face because i was taking her is one memory that i will cherish forever.
Go Di Go :yahoo: Aw wow thats fantastic, well fliping done you! :hugs:
Thank you so much for your reply Robin. :)
I've had a bit of a 'break through.' I'm not 100% sure I'm doing it right. I realised at last that I will only have a full blown panic attack if I let my thoughts run away with me, or indulge them. I'm aknowledging them and letting them go and tollerating anxiety and physical symptoms more today as I know it won't lead to a panic attack unless I catastrophise. (I don't think I'm accpeting 100% there am I?)
I've had lots of anxiety popping up since getting up but most are about the fact that I am not panicing! It felt a bit strange. I suppose it has been one way for so long....
I've pm'ed you btw, I hope that's ok?
Hi Zengarden
Sounds like you are doing very well :-)
Great that you realised that even using the techniques in order to not have a panic attack is not quite 100% acceptance - not everyone sees that so soon. It's a bit of a puzzler for a while - you learn skills to help you recover from panic - yet part of it is learning to accept if you do panic. The good news is that eventually you reach a point where the fight or flight sensations don't arise so you don't even have to practice or 'accept' - your body just returns to a more balanced state.
And it is a very common experience that people feel anxiety about not having the panic that they are used to having - what happens is that even though you don't reach a full scale state of 'panic' (because of your new understanding and skills) you still have low level adrenaline for a while and it almost feels like you would rather have a panic attack to 'get it over with'
This too will pass the more you practice
But well done so far :-)
Robin
I have been using the cbt4panic programme and very pleased with the programme and the support Robin has given. I have found it easy to follow and the illustrations help for all the info to sink in and be understood.
I have so far had some good successes going for job interviews and have just started a volunteer job. I managed to expose myself to these situations without any medication which i couldn't do before.
I am very pleased with the result so far and want to continue progressing with the programme.
You have to put the work in but i know it is all worth it to live the life i want to live. :)
Hi, I remember when this programme first came to NMP and I will be totally honest, while the site's admin staff raved about it, I noted cynically that they got the entire programme for free.
These days I am far less cynical about the motives of others (unless they are big corporations like Apple and Google, who let's face it, are worming their way into power!).
I have already begun arranging CBT with a local therapist via Anxiety UK because I felt that travelling out to see her would be a big thing for me; I'm not housebound but I don't go out that much except for work, so the prospect of more therapy from the comfort of my own home would seem counterproductive after a year of telephone counselling.
On the other hand I realise that the above thoughts are kind of missing the point of CBT which is about making yourself get out more and be part of the world.
I'm going to see how my own CBT goes as I am extremely confident in Anxiety UK and in fairness, I have already committed to it. If anything goes wrong though I will sign up for this CBT4PANIC programme. Not only am I far less cynical these days as I mentioned earlier, I hugely respect the fact that the man responsible for CBT4PANIC actually had the balls to come here and ask for honest feedback. Plus of course the amount of positive feedback for the programme has been immense.
Actually, maybe I'll try the free trial...
Hi PsychoPoet
Glad to hear that you are going to give CBT a try - I hope it goes well for you.
As you say - if all else fails you can give CBT4PANIC a go.
I'm afraid your previous cynicism was understandable given the amount of mediocre non-professional panic 'products' online. It's sad that these have caused people to be wary of genuine programmes.
CBT4PANIC really is totally open to scrutiny on this site - all anyone needs to do is try the free trial and if they think it has no merit they can easily say so here on NMP.
But despite the very positive feedback so far people are still wary - it's very frustrating when I know it can really help people.
Anyway - best of luck with the CBT - please let us all know how it goes.
Robin
Hi mate, thanks for the reply. It wasn't purely because of all the crappy "Send me ten grand and I'll give you the THREE SECRET STEPS to recovery, magical powers and your own private jet" stuff, back then I used to fall out with the admins all the time for some reason. Like I said, I'm not that person any more. I'll check that free trial of yours on my day off tomorrow. Will the course help me if I procrastinate horribly and always look on the negative side?
Hi
Actually - it sounds to me that you are looking on the positive side at the minute :)
Have sent you a pm
Robin
Hi, thanks, it's fantastic when someone says that :)
I suppose after all I've been through it would be counter-productive and somewhat moronic to still be totally negative, especially after the blip I just came through!
Hi everyone
Just wanted to reach out and ask those people who have found the CBT4PANIC programme helpful if they would share their experiences with everyone.
It would help to reassure people that this is a genuine professional treatment plan - that WORKS.
Thanks
Robin ;-)
Fantastic news Diane :)
I like this idea Robin, not the course, haven't tried it, but I like the idea of opening up feedback on the forum.
I am pretty sure your programme will be a success to many, and I applaud you for allowing people to post their experiences/reviews without any censoring.
Will be looking on with interest :)
i would be interested but of course I have fear. I don't want anything with subliminal messages or anything
I am getting on well, finding I'm having little kicks of anxiety and it's gotten a bit worse now I'm doing exposure but I'm confident this will start to get better when I'm well into the exercises. The anxiety is more physical than mental now. Like it's angry lol.
Adrian Hart
01-03-12, 02:56
i am connfussed were is the cb2 . i cant see it. link to it. or do jack $h!t to it.
somebody wants to make this site a littlebit more easyer to follow. i have tried cbt b4 and not to very good results . but looking back 1 hour every 14 days wasnt going to work 30 mins on a pc and 30 mins on a telephone . every 14 days my anxiety dwarfs that 100 fold how they expect you to get better i dont know .your seems different more intence .
nomorepanic
01-03-12, 09:18
Adrian - Are you trying to find a link to Robin's CBT programme - is that what you mean?
nomorepanic
01-03-12, 09:19
Here it is anyway -
http://www.nomorepanic.co.uk/showthread.php?t=91696
Have found this course incredibly useful. Since I started I've had considerable progress, and have started doing things which would previously trigger anxiety. Although I have been anxious at times it's been nowhere on the scale than before I started and have so far kept it under control - although it's not actually something I control it's more something that I have decided not to be affected by! I have been quite thorough and gone over the chapters several times before moving on, sometimes watching the videos as well. When there has been a long gap, I've gone back to the beginning. I am now starting to feel confident about the possibility of recovery. I'm actually amazed at how quickly it started to work too. Definitely gets my vote. THANK YOU SO MUCH!!
Adrian Hart
21-03-12, 02:16
not quite sure if this is the right place to post this but it dous contain my view on cbt.
but not the course set out on here.
i was first sent for cbt over the telephone 1 hour every 14 days for 12 calls
then every intermediate week i would be called from a student at a collage to find out how my treatment has helped me.
the course was all about understanding were the panic comes from ect.ect
the next stage was introdusing yourself back to the world pushing your self forward / in to harms way / is the way i see it
you have to face your feer head on .mine is driving away from home.
they wanted to messure my responce to driving away alittle fit further each week pushing and pushing to break the barrier that contains the panic ( comfort zone)
all though this may be good for some one that is new to panic dissorder it is not in my oppinion any good to some one that has sufferd for over 20 years .
how mant times have you lied toor made excuses to your self your wife your kids all because of panic . so i am sorry some one over the tellephone telling you to do something isnt going to work .if i said grab a knife and cut your self you couldnt do it
the self presovation kicks in . well this is the same thing.
the next time i was sent for cbt 3 weeks ago .was a class descusion group . i have never seen anything so stupid in all my life . this was there first year and first class of that year at doing cbt . it was a two hour class over a twelve week program that they managed to cover in 1 hour then spent the next hour repeating them self . the lady that was taking the class .how can i say (all she wanted to do for 1:30 mins is to draw a cave man on a board to show the fight flight responce) when the man of the class wouldnt let her well that was it she didnt speak to him ant more .
sad sad sad . abit like richard and judy hosting rainbow. not a clue.
anyhow for me cbt is no good and i belive untill you get to the point were you belive the panic responce cant hurt you it is no good moving forward . you must belive in your self before you can put your next foot forward .then the steps that you take are towards the ending of your suffering.
sorry for my rant and sorry if this is in the wrong place i got it as close as i could find
adipall.
Hi Adrian
I sent you a private message with some more information regarding CBT4PANIC.
I'm sorry that you have had a bad experience with CBT - I agree that it would have been very difficult for you to follow a CBT programme from one phone call every two weeks and the group discussion sounds like it had it's own problems
Can I just add that I hope you don't let these unfortunate experiences put you off CBT altogether. CBT if administered correctly really is the most effective treatment for Panic Disorder.
You were saying that 'until you get to the point where you believe the panic response can't hurt you you can't move forward' - and I actually partly agree with you on this. In fact, because I suffered from panic disorder myself I used to argue with my trainers when they wanted to send sufferers out to 'face their fears' without enough coping skills to help them deal with the anxiety that is bound to arise.
But I also must say that very graduated exposure IS half of the equation. If you likened it to a fear of water or swimming. No matter how long you spent reassuring a person that they will be able to swim - no matter how much time you read the theory of floatation and show them the techniques for swimming they can NEVER lose their fear until they actually get into the water.
So - it's a 'catch 22' - and that is why I believe in a thorough understanding of panic with a long time spent on learning skills that will help you cope with anxiety BEFORE you do the exposure work. Also, many new therapists discount the power of 'interoceptive exposure' - which is practiced at home and helps you to gradually get used to the frightening physical sensations long before you venture out.
Anyway - have a read at my PM and get back to me.
Best of luck :)
Robin
Hi Everyone
I'm sure Adrian won't mind if I draw everyone's attention to his new post here
http://www.nomorepanic.co.uk/showthread.php?t=112314
He ended up trying CBT4PANIC and so far he says it has changed his whole opinion of CBT and that for the first time he feels hopeful about breaking free of his anxiety.
I would like to thank him for giving the programme a try and for expressing his change of mind.
I know that people on the forum are very wary about any online anxiety programmes (for good reasons) but CBT4PANIC is an incredibly effective professional treatment plan - if you try a search on the forum for CBT4PANIC you will see that it is helping a lot of people.
Best of luck :)
Robin
I have had CBT4PANIC programme for several weeks and not even looked at it till I had a really terrible week last week. It helped me get through the week and I will be continuing to use it.
It has made me realise that I am on what I call a panic/anxiety train and didn't know how to get off!!! Now I feel I have some hope of breaking the doors open and jumping off the train lol
:roflmao::roflmao:
Hi Jenny
So gald to hear that you ar efinding the programme helpful
Please feel free to contact me with any difficulties you might be having
Best of luck :)
Robin
Jenny
Not using it???? Your posting has confused me. Is it good the program or not?
Joy
Hi Joy
I think Jenny means that she 'hadn't' looked at it 'until' she had a terrible week, and then she used it and it helped her through the week (meaning it is good) and she will 'be continuing to use it'
Hope this helps
Robin
Hi thinking of trying your programme , I have tension headaches for about a month non stop could this help with this ,also I was on Anti depressant meds but came off and the psych said with people like me thats the only hope " therapies" wont work .Would appreciate our feedback before purchasing thank
Powered by vBulletin® Version 4.2.5 Copyright © 2024 vBulletin Solutions Inc. All rights reserved.