OPEN UP AND LIVE By Basil Livingstone When Basil began to experience panic attacks that left him shaken and insecure, he took to avoiding friends and social situations. To a certain extent this approach worked, but increased isolation did nothing to help his frame of mind. After an attack took him by surprise, counselling provided one route to recovery. But above all, he believes his choral group has helped him the most, forcing him to mix with other people and take part in a positive social experience.