With Dr Gloria Ndagire
Dear Doctor,
I grew up with a cruel aunt and uncle who mistreated me. Today, whenever my boss shouts at me, I get panic attacks, my heart races and I feel faint. What could this be?
John

Dear John,
I am sorry that you had a difficult childhood. The circumstances surrounding one’s childhood can affect a person more than one can imagine. I wonder what your aunt and uncle did to you, but bad childhood emotional experiences can affect one’s emotional stability.

However, the good thing is you know the cause and are in a better position to deal with it. It sounds like an anxiety disorder characterised by panic attacks. The symptoms associated with anxiety disorders vary and can be severe.

They usually occur when one is exposed to situations similar to those that caused trauma in one’s past. In some cases, anxiety can have a negative effect on ones life, for instance career and relationships, so it is important that you seek help before the situation gets out of control.

Anxiety disorders can be managed through counselling and psychosocial therapy. See a counsellor or a psychologist.