Hello Help input

My name is Chad and I have suffered from OCD and anxiety since I was 7. The having to check things locks etc.Random panic attacks and constant worry of harmless stuff. However starting about 4 yrs ago I would start getting panic attacks while driving alone or being alone. I didnt pay much attention to it at first until it started more and more. The weird thing is I can go almost anywhere as long as a friend is with me. Unless its in the middle of no where with nothing near by for miles. I can drive by myself forabout 1/2 mile then the panic attacks set in. I guess maybe the anxiety disorder and OCD have progressed to this phobia? I have tried SSri meds in the past most offered no relief. Which brings up another point. Its hard for me to start meds because Soon as I feel side affects that launches a major panic attack. So sometimes I try to avoid new meds etc. I can say one thing all of this leaves me so tired. My interest levels are way down. I feel trapped. Mornings are the worst the constant feel of doom and gloom . Thanks for any input.

Hi
Have you ever had therapy for this, ever tried to find out the cause? I remember having OCD early. I never like going anywhere without a friend (not that I had many)
Pity meds don't work well for you. What about trying hypnotherapy, it can work well for panic attacks. It worked for me.
Worth a try?
Talk to your doctor there are other meds besides SSRIs for panic attacks.

Yea I have had therapy for these issues. I have xanax for panic attacks,but that does no good if I wanted to go somewhere as it zonks me out. I haven't tried the hypno thing I may look into it. I just feel like this stuff gets worse and my box keeps getting smaller.

I had beta blockers for panic attacks, they worked really well. They stopped the fast heartbeat, sweating, feeling faint, shaking, they reduced my anxiety in as much as I knew I could keep control of my physical symptoms.
They might not suit you, but you could have a chat with your doctor.

Thanks for all you help. I will look into it. Thanks for reminding me of the beta blocker. I was at the cardio doctor getting ready to have a stress test done,and they said my heart rate needed to be lower so they gave me a beta blocker I remember I felt real relaxed. I forgot all about it.