One thing people should not do to treat panic attacks is drink alcohol. Alcohol is a depressant and can actually make a panic attack worse. You can also become dependent on its effects and damage your body. Drink water if you need to drink something.
If you are close to someone who deals with panic attacks, it may be a good idea to learn how to recognize the physical symptoms of an attack so that you can help your friend or loved one work through it. It is common to see things like shortness of breath, trouble swallowing, stomach problems, hot and cold flashes, and even shaking. Be sure that the individual is not actually having a heart attack before you try to assist them in dealing with their panic attack.
Deep breathing and meditation are a good way to refocus your attention during a panic attack. Take 10 full deep breaths and count out each inhale and exhale. This will oxygenate your brain and help you focus on something else.
The mere thought of panic attacks are enough to stir them for many. It is best to avoid thinking about what causes your attacks and how difficult it is to deal with one. Such deliberations can actually induce your panic attacks. As an example, what do you think about if I ask you to think about something other than a purple cow? Of course, you cannot help but think about a purple cow and the same is true for over thinking your anxiety issues.
When you feel that you are about to have a serious panic attack, stop whatever you are doing, sit yourself down, and concentrate on your breathing. Breathe in deeply through your nose; your stomach should rise as you take in your breathe. Also as you breathe, count to five slowly. Exhale through your mouth and count to five again, slowly. Try to do this process ten times to feel better.
You need to push yourself, literally to the point of exhaustion, and exceed any previous boundaries you may have set for yourself. When the exercises are no longer a challenge you need to up the intensity or try something new.
Try to focus on thoughts and actions that make your panic attacks go away, instead of just learning about how to treat an attack. Think positive, stay in the present and try and stay positive when you think negative thoughts.
The Internet makes finding panic attack support easy. You can learn about treatments for panic attacks and express your concerns to people who understand your situation.
A lot of people are able to control panic attacks by knowing their feelings. If you feel a panic attack coming on, just remember that panic attacks consist of emotions, and they cannot really hurt you. Repeat a mantra that is positive and keep doing this until it sticks.
Have you never not been able to calm down from a panic attack? You truly have control over your mind and body!
Commit yourself to learning basic relaxation techniques that can be used when you feel the onset of an attack. Practice these useful methods often, and outside of an anxious situation, so that you will be well versed and prepared to use them to head off the next attack or at least maintain some control over it.
Having panic attacks does not indicate that you are broken or flawed in some way, or mean you are emotionally weak. In fact, the fact you can handle them means you are a strong person. When or if you have your next attack, remember the advice given here and you should be able to handle it even better. With practice and determination, you may eradicate panic attacks entirely.
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