Panic attacks can appear completely out of the blue. The symptoms associated with an attack can be quite terrifying, leaving the sufferer completely confused as to what is happening to him. Panic attacks are part of suffering from an anxiety disorder, so here are a few things that you should know about this affliction.
It is likely that there is a support group for panic attack sufferers in your area, so look online for one near you. This can help you see what others do to deal with their problem, and it provides you with a chance to vent to others who you can trust to understand.
Realize that feelings are just feelings and that they can’t harm you while you’re having a panic attack. Stand still for just one minute and let the feelings drain out of your body. Try to blank your mind out and then replace those bad thoughts with positive ones about the people you love.
A fun visualization technique when you’re having a panic attack is to become a leaf falling from a tree. Float to the ground slowly, swaying back and forth, and land gently on the ground. Let the wind blow you through the forest and focus on everything you fly past on the ground.
Try to talk to the friend face to face. It can be a very quick and effective aid to reduce your anxiety.
If you have had a panic attack before, it is important not to dwell on the feelings from that attack. While these attacks are admittedly unsettling, thinking about an attack can cause some people to have another one. If you are having anxiety from a panic attack, treat those thoughts the same way you would the attack itself and practice some relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
Reducing the stress in your life can help to decrease the frequency or severity of your panic attacks. Stress stimulates the production of adrenalin and is often directly related to a panic attack. While some stress factors are uncontrollable, others can be managed, reduced or eliminated by your actions. For example, if you lead a busy lifestyle and have little free time in which to relax, learn how to say no to people who need favors or bosses who constantly want you to work overtime. Be polite yet assertive. Put your health before the needs of others for a change. It’s not being selfish ” it’s being smart.
Taking long, purposeful breaths is one of the best ways to calm the effects of a panic attack. Breathing in this way helps you to relax, but it also increases blood flow throughout your body.
Take a self-analysis before you have an attack. Finding the root causes of your fear can be enlightening. Look into what is causing your fear and share these deep fears with someone you trust. When you share and explore the root causes of your fear, it loses the power over your mind.
When you are having a panic attack, try to think of something positive. If you keep your mind focused on the actual attack, your symptoms will just get worse. Think of something that makes you happy or of a positive event. If it makes you feel better, you could even talk with a loved one about these good times.
Panic attacks are nothing of which to be ashamed. Nor are they something that you should attempt to hide from your friends and family. By using the tips above, you can now seek medical assistance and emotional support so that you can move forward and learn how to control this disorder when it strikes.
