Panic attacks might seem very scary and irritating, but if you can definitely treat them or eradicate them altogether. If you do not know how, you can make your attacks occur more frequently or make them more severe. Don’t despair, the tips listed below can help you start treating your panic attacks safely.
One important aspect of panic attacks is to learn how to recognize the signs of when a panic attack is coming on so that you can interpret it properly. Otherwise, you will interpret the attack in an even more fearful way, which will make your symptoms worse. When you feel the symptoms of a panic attack coming on, remind yourself, “Oh, this is a panic attack – and these symptoms are psychological, not physical.”
No matter how much a panic attack makes you want to run and hide, DON’T. Stand up to your fear and stay right where you are. Once you realize that every time you don’t run nothing happens your brain will start to figure out that the fear thing isn’t working, and it won’t be able to take you over anymore.
Panic attacks are terrifying because the person experiencing them has the sudden overwhelming fear that they are going to die. The important thing to remember about panic attacks is that you can control them cognitively. Your brain is taking normal everyday stimuli (a shift in the road while driving, for example), and interpreting them in a fearful way. You can course-correct this fearful interpretation by trying to recall what the source of that stimulus could be. This will reduce your fear and your panic should subside somewhat.
During a panic attack, there are some things you should avoid doing because they can exacerbate the symptoms. Calling a friend is a good idea but don’t discuss the panic attack, as this will only place your focus on your anxiety. Do not look in a mirror. You may increase the severity of your symptoms if you see the fear reflected on your face. Try not to sit down. This restricts breathing and does nothing to occupy your mind. Try walking around or even doing light exercises.
To distract yourself from the panicky feelings that occur during an attack, try progressive relaxation. Tense and release each muscle group from your toes to your head, and try to focus on the sensations in your muscles. This prevents you from clenching your muscles and gives you something relaxing to do as you wait for the panicky sensation to subside.
A great plan of attack for your anxiety is to practice cognitive therapy in conjunction with a medication regimen. In this way, you are attacking your problem from several angles which will help alleviate your stress and panic attacks in the best manner. Try this tip if you want to alleviate your panic attacks today.
Breathe slowly. When you have a panic attack, your body goes into panic mode and you might start breathing quick, shallow breaths. Instead, cup your hands and breathe into them or get a small paper bag and do that as well. Breathing in your own carbon dioxide and taking deep breaths will help relax you.
When you have a panic attack, try to find something to do that you enjoy. For example, some have found it helpful to perform a cleaning task that is repetitive, like vacuuming. Both the sound and the motion might help to relax the body and the mind. It can also provide a feeling of accomplishment when you’re done!
So, as you can see panic attacks are not permanent or as never-ending as they may appear. It does require some research and speaking with a doctor, but it will be worth it in the end to have them under control. Keeping the previous tips in mind, you should be able to effectively treat your panic attacks.
