Aftermath
The next morning you wake up, feeling groggy but better than you were. Embarrassment floods you as you realize you had a panic attack in front of your three friends, at work. You get ready, slipping on your binder and other clothes before you head out, opening the door, and stepping out. Once you make it to the subway, you let out a deep breath, and you sit there for a second, thinking of what to say to the team. It was probably quite a shock to them for you to have panic attacks all of a sudden.
“Thanks guys for dealing with me yesterday.” You say once you walk into the office. “I’m sorry you had to deal with all that. And thanks for getting me home safe, Karen.” you apologize.
Karen nods and smiles gently back at you “Of course”
“Do you want to talk about what caused you to have a panic attack like that?” Matt proads.
“It’s stupid.”
“It’s not stupid if it made you feel that way yesterday.” Karen articulates.
“Just a lot sometimes. And I got overwhelmed and in my head because the news hasn’t been kind to trans people. And that made me dysphoric and overall it was a pretty yucky day.” You say.
“I’m sorry to hear that,” Matt responds sympathetically.
“It’s fine. I’m used to it” you answer.
“You shouldn’t have to be, though.” Foggy chimes in. You shrug.
“Well, I am.”
“We all get them sometimes so we understand how draining they can be. Are you okay to work today?” Foggy asks kindly.
You almost want to smile in response. How the hell have you been able to find such genuine and kind people? You were the luckiest person in the world and you were able to hang out with them most days for work.
“Yeah, I’ll be fine.” You assure the crew.
“Okay, let us know if it changes, okay kid?” Karen asks.
“Okay,” you agree.
Foggy walks over to the coffee machine and pours you a cup. They had probably brewed some coffee before you arrived. He hands you the mug and you smile. “Thanks, guys, you’re the best” you exclaim.