Not much is known about panic attacks and many people aren’t convinced they exist until they have one. It can be difficult to know what you can do about them, but here are some solid steps you can take to make sure you can handle these attacks when they occur.
Pretend you feel great when you have a panic attack. Say out loud that whatever is bothering you is just fine. For example, “My heart is NOT fluttering! It’s beating perfectly and smoothly and I am so thankful for that!” Rotate around your body and truly believe in the words you say and they’ll come true in short order.
Create your own panic attack mantra to help you get over the feelings of fear. “I am an amazing person who can deal with everything!” is mine. I like that it’s short, easy to say, and I can really get into the feeling of it. Create your own and repeat it out loud to beat that attack!
A helpful way to manage your panic attacks is by speaking with a professional, such as a doctor or counselor. That is the purpose of their job. You might feel better just by knowing that someone will listen and do their best to help you.
Consider picking up, “You Can Heal Your Life”, by Louise Hay and find out what the symptoms of your panic attack are telling you. The book describes each symptom and how your brain can cause it to show you that there is something going on in your life, like the fact you’re not able to discuss your feelings openly.
Cool down your body by placing wet towels on your forehead, neck, arms, and torso. This can help slow your heart rate and bring your panic attack to a swift end. It will also help you to relax as you focus on each towel and how amazingly it’s cooling your skin.
Ask your friend if they can meet you to talk in person. This will improve your mood and increase your happiness.
A useful tip for dealing with panic attacks is to change the way you live. Incorporate regular exercise into your life to eliminate extra adrenaline in the blood stream. Steer clear of smoking, drinking and processed food items, and you will stand a better chance of preventing panic attacks.
Neither telling yourself nor telling someone else that a panic attack is irrational will stop it from happening. Don’t worry about how you look to others during a panic attack, this will only increase your anxiety. Just focus on enduring it as calmly as possible.
The fear of panic attacks will make you want to flee. Do not let this fear rule you and pay attention to what you are feeling. If you let your fears win or you try to fight the unpleasant moment you will never gain your control back. Allow and accept your feelings and they will pass.
Deep breathing is a proven method for avoiding, controlling and ultimately overcoming panic attacks. Taking deep breaths keeps you relaxed and occupied. It also lowers your blood pressure and pulse as well as eases tension and increases circulation.
Self-esteem is an important factor to consider when trying to overcome your anxiety. People with high self-esteem are less likely to panic because they are happier with who they are. They are more confident. Try to work on your self-esteem to make yourself a little less anxious.
Having a panic attack can be a bit scary, but when you have the tips above, it can be a little easier. Make sure to try each step when you have an attack to see which method works best for you. Find one that helps and finally feel a little better.
