Stress is a big factor and people like us with COPD should try and take it easy . I know its easier said than done but my 7 year old grandson says Gran just chillax and I am going to try my hardest. God bless all.

Anytime I am stressed or tired, I struggle to breathe easy and my wheezing scares anyone who may be around me at that time. Over the last 10 years, I have learned it is part of COPD for me, and just being very still (sitting up) will stop the gasping for air within a couple of minutes. I also find breathing in with my nose and out with my mouth brings quicker relief. It is scary at times but I am very careful not to get myself in a situation where I can't sit down if needed, which helps any anxiety. Good luck in finding what works for you.

I agree with Jean, it helps to relax and do your breathing. I found Christmas Day with all family around got to hot and loud, I went to my Granddaughters room, lay on her bed and did my breathing and about 10 mins later was fine, and nobody missed me.

There is nothing wrong with venting, especially on this site. Glad you finally did get your diagnosis. My doctor tried a couple years back to get me pulmonary rehab. And it was denied. In the USA at least there is a criteria that must be met, and he just tried again, and this time I am approved. Sometimes we must just trust that the doctor is doing his best, I know mine is.

Grace, when you look for a counselor, you're not looking for a best friend or confidant; you're looking for someone who will help you deal with some of the very painful things in your life, one of which is COPD and the changes that you've had to make over the years to accommodate it. It's a professional relationship in which the focus is you and your well being. It's not a mutual relationship and it shouldn't be. The counselor's focus is to help you deal with things that are bothering you. While telling a counselor some of the painful things hurts, the counselor should help you begin to deal with those things. They are trained not to cause additional pain because of the way they react. So while it can be painful to talk about, it should result in some healing. I would encourage you to find a good, highly recommended therapist. You could probably ask your doc for a referral.