Help with panic attacks

When you or someone you run into requires help with an anxiety attack, it is essential to be aware of the steps to carry out to alleviate the symptoms and recover a sense of calm. There are two different scenarios here – one is when you are the individual undergoing the panic attack and the second is when you’re with someone undergoing a panic attack.

If you see a friend or stranger going through a panic attack, first make certain it’s not another condition that may necessitate medical examination , for example an asthma attack. See if there’s a cause for the panic (such as being in a stuck elevator). If so, try to help the person get some distance from the situation.

Keep composed when you’re offering panic attack help to somebody and do not try to touch them (such as put your arms around them). Just be soothing to the person. Don’t tell them there is nothing to be afraid of because to them, there is.

All you need to do is get them to focus on deap breathing, breathing in a slow and controlled manner. If you have access to it, pass them a cool washcloth or towel since many panic attack sufferers can feel facial flushing. Remain with the person until the panic attack subsides.

If you are the one who has to provide panic attack help for yourself, the initial thing you need to do is try to calm your mind. During a panic attack, your thoughts can often rush ahead, making it almost impossible to think straight.

Focus on slow deep breathing – breathe slowly and fully. Controlled breathing will slow down your racing heart and assist in keeping the panic attack under control. If possible, find something to cool your face with.

Try to rationally think about what’s going on during the moment. Remember that a panic attack will not kill you. You are simply experiencing symptoms that are frightening at that moment.

Distract yourself for the duration of the 10-30 minute panic attack to help you stop thinking about it. You can accomplish this with music, self-hypnosis, or by working on something distracting like a puzzle or crossword.

Some people find it useful to begin some form of exercise – whether it’s walking briskly or dancing around the room to your favorite music. You may be scared to move if your chest is constricting, but sometimes this is exactly what relieves the symptoms.

There are a number of methods you can use to get panic attack help when you require it. The most fundamental thing to do is study how to control it before it happens, and that means discovering a coping mechanism that works for you and exercising it so that when the time comes, you’re prepared.
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