Mental health.. News story triggered a panic attack

That's one part of what this forum is here for.  Rant away if that's what you need - we get it.  I doubt that there's any of us who haven't felt that icy sensation come over us as our stomach drops from hearing or reading something unexpectedly.  If you're already suffering anxiety, that's going to up the ante.  It's good that you have got in to see a psych.  If nothing else than to have someone who has to listen to what you say.  It's amazing our cathartic that can be.