A panic attack can be terrifying and emotionally crippling to its victim. The sensation of panic can greatly impact your lifestyle, since it has the ability to limit your willingness to socialize and participate in the broader world. This article contains some tips that will aid you in controlling the symptoms of panic attacks.
Participating in deep breathing a few times a day can help keep your body relaxed and free from panic attacks. Start by breathing through your nose to your stomach on a slow count of four, and then breathe out through your mouth for four. Increase to five, six, and beyond as you can.
While it’s difficult to think clearly during a panic attack, there is a simple tactic you can use to lessen the severity and duration of the attack. By splashing your face with cold water, your body automatically responds to what is called the “dive reflex.”� This tricks the brain into thinking that you are going underwater, and it sends messages to the body to slow down your heart rate and restrict blood flow to your extremities, allowing you to breathe easier and feel calmer.
During a panic attack it’s great to concentrate on what is great about yourself. Remember what you’re good at, or things you’ve done for others lately. Maybe you’re a kind person, or you have great empathy. All of the things about you which are amazing are what makes you you, so embrace them!
In the middle of a panic attack, visualize a peaceful scene. It may be hard to do this at first, but with a little practice you will be able to ride out a panic attack by visualizing a peaceful place and allowing yourself to relax until the panic attack subsides.
If you understand how breathing can change your mood, you can control your anxiety. If you lengthen or slow down the speed of your exhalation, your body and mind will begin to relax. If you slow down the speed of your inhalation, you will stimulate your body and your mind.
If you are prone to panic attacks, you know that complete avoidance of panic-causing situations is not always possible. Learn out of body techniques to remove yourself from the situation and allow you to view it as if you were watching television. What would you tell yourself to do? How would you provide comfort? Often placing yourself in the role of mentor or guide trying to help someone else deal with panic issues will get you through the worst situations.
A silly but successful way to help get through a panic attack is to place something cold, like an ice pack or frozen food, beneath your arms in your armpits. Focus on the coolness and feel it go throughout your body. I have no idea how it works, but it does!
When you begin to feel tension and panic you should try watching a funny video on TV or on the internet. Make sure that you laugh out loud. The act of laughing and opening up will help you relax and will release hormones that will make your worries disappear.
Many people who suffer from panic attacks or panic disorder are finding relief through cognitive-behavioral therapy. In fact, studies show that as many as 80% of patients receive substantial relief from their symptoms as a result of the strategies they learn through this technique. Cognitive-behavioral therapy helps you understand the cause of your attacks and teaches you ways to alter or eliminate the negative behaviors and thought processes that lead to attacks.
These helpful tips will support you in your fight against panic attacks. Remember that feeling negative about things is part of your panic. You can fix these things. Doing the work needed to prevent or lessen the severity of your panic attacks will be worth the effort, for the pay off is a happier and less stressful existence.
