panic attack during the MCAT?

[mytoechondriac]

I'm prone to panic attacks(I am v. neurotic and I also have mild OCD) and I am worried I will have a panic attack during the MCAT. Is there anyone here who is also prone to them? This is not a joke. Serious replies only. Thanks

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[bozz]

Stop thinking about panic attacks

delete this thread!

 

[DrMattOglesby]

evidently, psychiatry is not the ideal field for my friend bozz...
a good way to approach this is to simulate the testing experience as much as possible, as often as possible. repeated exposure tends to nullify the effect a new and stressful situation can have on those who might be prone to anxiety disorders.
of course, consult a physician, and i hope that goes without saying.

 

[joyrunner]

I didn't have a panic attack during the MCAT, but I got very very worried that I was dropping the ball on the biology section. I could feel myself losing it, and I just concentrated harder on forgetting about the questions I didn't know. It turned out finer than fine.

You'll probably be concentrating too hard to have a panic attack. Plus, being in the MCAT, there will be something you can do about your anxiety: answer the next question.

And, take lots and lots of practice test. Like 10. Especially considering the anxiety.

 

[J ROD]

Mr. Matt gave you excellent advice as a psychologist would. It should help. I will be more like the psychiatrist and suggest some anti-anxiety meds like valium or xanax. Pills can be our friend if we let them. 😀


A pill a day, will keep the anxiety away!!

Thank you and come again!!

Disclaimer: Please consult your physician before you begin any new medication regiment.

 

[bozz]

evidently, psychiatry is not the ideal field for my friend bozz...
a good way to approach this is to simulate the testing experience as much as possible, as often as possible. repeated exposure tends to nullify the effect a new and stressful situation can have on those who might be prone to anxiety disorders.
of course, consult a physician, and i hope that goes without saying.

okay doctor 🙄

my advice was from my own experience... find ways to occupy your time... the more you think you'll have one, the more likely you will have one.
Workout, relax, listen to music, see a doctor and maybe get some pills.

 

[mytoechondriac]

thanks for the replies

I have Rx for xanax, but I don't think as clearly when I'm on it... I only take it now when I fly and when my parents come into town so I was worried taking it on test day would fck my thinking up a little, since it kind of does(esp verbal)

I also have the option of taking the "special" MCAT-- the one for people w/learning disabilities. But I didn't want to take that version because the med schools see the notation that you took it under different time constraints

 

[J ROD]

thanks for the replies

I have Rx for xanax, but I don't think as clearly when I'm on it... I only take it now when I fly and when my parents come into town so I was worried taking it on test day would fck my thinking up a little, since it kind of does(esp verbal)

I also have the option of taking the "special" MCAT-- the one for people w/learning disabilities. But I didn't want to take that version because the med schools see the notation that you took it under different time constraints

Have you been on the xanax continously before like for a couple of weeks to allow your body time to get adjust to the medication?

IF meds are not an option, I would meditate or use some other relaxation technique. Just find a "happy place" and go there mentally. 😀

 

[DrMattOglesby]

okay doctor 🙄

touche bozz...well-played 😛

 

[ohiostatedoc]

How do you know when you get one???

I mean, the MCAT is a different type of test....but since you came this far without have a panic attack during a test, you'll be fine.

I heard breathing excercises help............Or Do HOKAH, just kidding, it's really bad for you.