Panic Attacks at Wedding.. Need Advice.

MrsO, that's a great mantra to have for the day! Our officiant is also a comedian, btw, so I'm hoping that having a bit of humor in the ceremony will help put me at ease too

@OP..not weird at all to have people on grooms side who you can get a quick glance at! I have done that numerous times with my mom when I have been in front of lots of people. It really does help!

Courtney, thanks! I had this issue twice before when I had to walk across stage at graduation (though it was much quicker, of course) but it was a BIG help to see my family in the crowd cheering like a bunch of lunatics lol. It made me laugh, which instantly calms me down

OP, I'm so sorry. I too suffer from this horrible shit.

Ok so what I usually do, and what you can do, is ground yourself.

Touch things around you when your in panic (like your bouquet, your ring, etc.) to keep yourself in reality and your attention diverted from the anxiety. Counting and breathing helps too!

My husband and I both hate being the center of attention so we had a 7 minute ceremony!

You might also consider changing up the whole "walk down the aisle" if that's a point of worry for you. You can simply enter from a side door at the front, or come in with your FH if you'd rather skip the traditional walk. Your officiant should be able to handle that smoothly. If your father figure is bothered by that idea, you can do a "first look" with them ahead of time to get a father-daughter moment.

Sorry, YMMV means your mileage may vary, as in Xanax works this way for me but it might not for you.

Everyone's comments about alcohol and benzos are good to point out as well. I've never had a problem with half a Xanax and light drinking but I would never encourage anyone else to do that. Also if you do go the Xanax route (or any other medication for that matter), make sure you test it out ahead of time -- don't let your wedding day be the first time you see how it affects you!

I think if you can get through the ceremony, you should be good. I would make it as simple as possible, maybe have the vows as a repeat after me deal with the officiant. Then you're pretty much done! Those things can be pretty short if you want them to be.

I have the same thing, though I have GAD. It definitely hits hard when I'm the center of attention. 3 months is enough time to try a medication. I am just starting on lexapro for anxiety... maybe the doctor can give you something stronger for the actual day? I won't take xanax or valium because I'm prone to addiction (I'm in recovery) but I don't want to risk it.

Glad you got an appointment! It sounds like you're taking the right steps & managing your anxiety & panic attacks! I find that having lists & know what is going on really helps me. Your bridesmaids & DOC will be a huge help during the day of the wedding & your FH will be your main support through the ceremony & reception. just take a second when you need & remember to enjoy it! & of course drinks & dancing will help to forget the stress! Just not too many drinks, after all you want to remember the night! haha!

Haha, I'll definitely be moderate with the booze. My bridal party wants to start early with mimosas, so I'll need to pace myself all day lol.

I've taken every bit of advice you've all shared, gone for the first appointment with my new therapist (she understood me well, going back next week), poured myself a glass of wine, and will finish the night by talking it all out with FH.

You've all helped me feel a lot better, thank you <3