Anyone who’s had one wants to know how to respond to anxiety attacks. A panic attack causes intense physical and psychological distress.
If the attacks continue they can ruin a person’s quality of life, putting limits on their day to day activities and restricting the choices they’re comfortable with.
In this article I want to give some thoughts about what to do. If you’ve ever had a panic attack, you want to know two things: what to do to prevent an anxiety episode to begin with and what to do if one happens anyway.
In the beginning, if you haven’t already you should see a physician.
Some people might have a physical issue. You want to be certain that you don’t have a physical problem such as a heart or thyroid problem responsible for your symptoms.
Visiting a doctor establishes the diagnosis and gives you the knowledge that you are physically OK. Some types of cognitive therapy use this reassurance to help combat the panic feeling.
It also helps to realize you aren’t the only one with this problem.
Panic episodes are unfortunately quite common. I suppose it’s not too surprising given the stressful times we live in. There are many on-line forums where people share stories and offer advice.
Like anything on-line you need to be prudent. I’ve seen some excellent advice on-line and I’ve seen some terrible advice.
It’s also helpful that many people describe what their attacks felt like. Hearing other people’s stories and how they’ve dealt with it is often inspiring and instructive.
Another early step is to look into a breathing technique to help with panic attacks known asdiaphragmatic breathing. This type of breathing is good for your health in general. It also helps you maintain a relaxed outlook.
Although it usually isn’t enough by itself it can be one of the tools used to bring an early panic episode under control.
It is also good to get instruction on the relaxation response. You can learn this from a therapist, on-line or even a book. However you learn the techniques, practice the techniques regularly.
Cognitive restructuring works very well in treating panic attacks. This is most easily applied working with a therapist but you can also use it on your own.
Lastly, if your episodes are particularly severe you may benefit from short term use of drugs such as antidepressants to give you some relief while the more permanent solutions have a chance to work.
People usually come off the medications after a relatively short period of time. A few need ongoing treatment.
There are other medications for anxiety and panic attacks that are used in addition to antidepressants.
Naturally, if you’re taking medication you need to be under a physician’s care.
I hope this has given you an idea of what to do about panic attacks. The main thing to know is that relief is possible.
You can learn about an extremely effective way to free yourself of panic attacks once and for all at Panic Away Review.
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