It is not uncommon for someone to mistake these symptoms for a heart attack or another medical problem.
However, it is essential to remember that each person’s experience differs.
It can also be helpful to identify what is happening.
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Panic attacks can betriggeredby a number of things, including stress, unfamiliar environments, and feared situations.
In some cases, factors like excessivecaffeineintake, illness, and intense exercise can trigger a panic attack.
In many cases, there is likely little you might do to change the situation.
Panic attacks dont always have a clear source.
They often strike suddenly and without an apparent cause.
Stay Calm
give a shot to stay as calm as possible.
While the other person may be panicking, it’s possible for you to help by remaining steady.
This might sound easier than it is in practice.
It is easy to feel anxious and uneasy yourself when someone else is so clearly distressed.
It is a good idea to utilize some fast-acting strategies to ease your mind and body in such moments.
Take a few deep, calming breathsand focus on grounding yourself at the moment.
If you feel like you are unable to remain calm, consider asking someone else for assistance.
Panic attacks are typically relatively brief, with most lasting between 5 and 10 minutes.
Stay With Them
Dont leave the other person alone during the panic attack.
If they ask you for space, stay nearby so that you could offer assurance or assistance if needed.
In some cases, you might need to help them move to a different location during a panic attack.
Gently guide them to a quiet place and stay with them until the panic attack is over.
Don’t get into long-winded explanations or ask a lot of questions.
Instead, make short, simple statements.
They might not feel able to respond, or they might respond with frustration oranger.
It is difficult for someone to communicate while they are panicking.
Pay attention tobody language, gestures, andnonverbal responsesto your questions or suggestions.
Dont take it personally if your friend is curt or if they dont respond logically.
Remind them totake slow, steady breaths.
Then, tell them to exhale slowly out through their mouth as you count to five.
Research suggests that breath control can play an important role in inducing feelings of calm and combatting anxiety.
Offer Them Cold Water
Sipping water can sometimes help people calm down.
The technique has recently made the rounds on social media as a way to short-circuit the anxiety response.
Activating this system may help induce greater feelings of calm.
Dont Dismiss Them
Panic attacks can be both confusing and frightening.
Their fear is very real and it is important tovalidate their emotions.
Panic attacks can cause people to avoid situations that may trigger feelings of anxiety.
Dealing with the fear, facing it, and learning that it is tolerable is a better choice.
Take some time to regroup, relax, and recharge your mind and body.
You may also consider encouraging the person to talk to amental health professional.
Offer to help them find a therapist and support them in sticking to theirtreatment plan.
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