**Young Woman’s Roller Coaster Panic Attack Goes Viral on TikTok**
Aspen Mather, a 21-year-old from the United States, recently shared her alarming experience on social media following a panic attack that occurred while riding a roller coaster. The incident left her hands temporarily locked in a claw-like position, leading to a wave of concern for her wellbeing and sparking widespread discussion online.
On May 23, Mather was at Lagoon Amusement Park in Utah with her husband and friends when she decided to tackle Wicked, one of the park’s most exhilarating rides. Known for its towering 110-foot vertical launch, the roller coaster filled Mather with a sense of dread, partly due to her longstanding issue with anticipation anxiety. “I’ve always had anticipation anxiety and especially struggle with roller coasters,” she explained. “Once I’ve been on a ride once, I can do it again no problem. It’s just the first time that’s a little rough.”
While waiting in an hour-long queue, Mather’s anxiety grew. She experienced waves of nausea and dizziness, and she took breaks to practice breathing exercises to manage her escalating panic. Despite these challenges, she was determined to face her fears and enjoy the thrill of the ride. However, as she boarded the coaster and it began to move, her anxiety escalated into a full-blown panic attack.
“The coaster launched, and that’s when I went into a full-blown panic attack,” Mather recounted. “I was hyperventilating, blacking out for a few seconds and feeling like I was going to die.” Struggling to maintain her grip on the ride, she didn’t fully comprehend the extent of her physical reaction until the ride stopped.
After the ride, Mather discovered that her hands had tightened into a tense, claw-like shape. The sensation was disconcerting, resembling a charley horse but in her hands. “My entire body had pins and needles, and my face and mouth were numb,” she shared. For a fleeting moment, she worried she might be having a stroke, a fear that was somewhat alleviated when she realised she could still speak.
Despite the frightening symptoms, Mather managed to calm herself using deep breathing techniques and rehydration. After around ten minutes, her physical discomfort subsided, and she felt able to carry on with her friends for the rest of the day. Although she avoided other major roller coasters, she enjoyed various attractions she had previously conquered.
Initially, Mather felt embarrassed about her body’s intense reaction to the excitement and anxiety of the day. However, after conducting some research, she discovered that her symptoms likely related to carpopedal spasms, a condition that can occur during panic attacks. This revelation fueled her decision to share her experience on TikTok.
Unexpectedly, her video resonated with a significant audience. The viral post sparked numerous comments from viewers who had suffered similar experiences during anxiety or panic-filled moments. “I had hundreds of people commenting or messaging me saying they were so thankful for my video,” Mather stated. “It helped them feel seen and more normal, or even helped them realise what was also happening to them in times of anxiety or panic.”
This overwhelming response has encouraged Mather as she continues to navigate her anxiety. She maintains a positive outlook regarding roller coasters and remains determined to overcome her fears. “I love rides and I’m a stubborn person,” she said. “This definitely won’t stop me from overcoming my fears or trying new coasters in the future.”
Mather’s story highlights the complexities of living with anticipation anxiety and demonstrates how shared experiences within communities can foster understanding and support. Her candid account not only sheds light on her personal struggles but has also provided comfort and connection for countless others facing similar challenges.