Having a panic attack can be very uncomfortable if you’re not used to it. Most people still have not heard about panic attacks, so they are not sure how to help you deal with them. Here are some effective ways to handle panic attacks so that you feel better when you have them.
If you are prone to panic attacks, it is important that you try to limit the amount of stress that is present in your life. Stress is the main cause of panic attacks. Try doing things that you enjoy and have not done in a while to find something that makes you happy.
During a panic attack you can be overtaken by worrisome “what if” statements, so a great way to get out of that mindset is to change them to “So what?” For example, “What if I fail my test?” turns into “SO WHAT if I fail my test?” Nothing is so bad it’s worth suffering over!
When suffering from a panic attack it is important to control your breathing. Many people find that their breathing becomes very rapid. You should take deep, slow breaths when you feel a panic attack approaching. This can help to lessen the intensity of your panic attack and make it more tolerable.
If you begin to feel panic attacks when you are in high pressure situations like public speaking events, then you should try to understand that the situation is only temporary and that life goes on. As you get placed in more situations like these, you will become more relaxed and happy.
If you experience panic attacks, you may find it useful to carry “insurance” in the form of some type of anti-anxiety medication. Medicines such as clonazepam in very small, occasional doses can be extremely effective in quickly calming a panic attack. They are not meant to be taken daily and should, of course, be taken under a doctor’s instructions.
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.
The most effective way to deal with panic attacks is to understand why you’re having them. It’s critical to recognize the signs of a panic attack when it is coming on: racing heartbeat, rising blood pressure, sweating, and most of all, overwhelming terror that seems to come from nowhere. These physical symptoms are frequently mistaken for a heart attack, it’s important for your mind to be sensitive to what is happening in your body, in order to talk yourself out of the attack.
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.
When you have a panic attack sit down and figure out how it’s making you feel at the moment. On a scale from one to ten to rate your feelings. Wait for a while and then rate your anxiety again. Continue until your anxiety is back to a 0.
Of course, consulting a doctor is the first thing you should do, but after you’ve talked to him, make sure to use these tips as a blueprint. Panic attacks can be unpleasant, but you are strong enough to handle them–especially once you arm yourself with the right kind of information.
