How To Take Control of Your Panic Attacks

An anxiety attack is an abrupt time of painful fear or apprehension that develops for no particular reason and causes severe physical reactions. Sometimes being so sudden can be very frightening. Some people may only have one or two attacks in their entire life time. But, if you are having them often, it may mean you have a panic disorder. Today, panic attacks are seen as real medical conditions, but were once seen as related to stress or nerves. Psychotherapy, relaxation techniques and medication can be helpful in preventing and controlling them.

It is important to first recognize the symptoms of the panic attack. Many will mistake one as a heart attack because of the shortness of breath that may occur. If you are not certain, it is a good idea to check with your doctor to make sure you do not have other medical problems or heart conditions. Recognize the symptoms and accept them and try not to fight them. Learn the early signs and symptoms of a Anxiety Attack, sometimes they can even be stopped at the first sign. Although the setting of a panic attack is usually very normal, they commonly occur during stressful times of life, such as death, divorce, or moving.

Even though panic attacks benefit greatly from professional treatment, you can help to manage symptoms yourself with some lifestyle changes and self-help steps. Once you learn to recognize the symptoms of a panic attack there are many coping techniques to alleviate them. Some of the most common are fast heartbeat, inability to sit still, dizziness and shortness of breath.

Some techniques you might try include:
1. Breathe in for seven second and then breathe out for eleven seconds. With your eyes closed, repeat this several times. You can practice this technique any time to prepare yourself.
2. Avoid alcohol, caffeine and drugs; all which can cause or worsen a panic attack.
3. Learn stress management and relaxation techniques. Yoga and meditation are two very good options.
4. Joining a support group will help you by connecting and talking to others who struggle with your same problems.
5. Try to think about the situation objectively. Ask yourself if there is any logical reason that you should be panicking at that particular time. Tell yourself you are safe and there is no reason to be afraid; this may help you to calm down and relax.
6. A panic attack will often get worse as focus is put on the cause of the attack. It can help to get your attention focused to something else, like a puzzle or word game. You can even trying counting backwards as long as you not thinking about the attack.

Need a Cure or Treatment? Then read more information about Panic Attacks.

Did you enjoy this post? Why not leave a comment below and continue the conversation, or subscribe to my feed and get articles like this delivered automatically to your feed reader.

Comments

No comments yet.

Leave a comment

(required)

(required)