Breathlessness, the urge to fight or flee, hyperventilation, palpitations, sweating for no reason, and anxiety are the common symptoms of a panic attack. In many cases all of these symptoms happen at one time or one after the other in quick succession. The worst is when it happens the first few times, because you haven’t experienced it before, you will unnecessarily worry. After you have experienced it a few times you will learn to live with it and move on.
Even to this day there is no real cure for panic attacks except maybe some life style changes. For example studies have shown that people, who consume a lot of caffeine and tobacco, are more likely to suffer from panic attacks. The “good” news is that after the first few times, you will be able to tell before it happens which will allow you to do a few things to avoid it or even stop it completely from happening. The next part of the article, we will be discussing ways to avoid it. The fact is each person’s experience of panic attacks maybe slightly different; however, the following tips will be of great help.
The fist and foremost thing to do is don’t stop breathing at any cost. Most people will simply forget to breathe properly. It is important to do this when you first experience the attack. After that slow down your thinking and try to relax. This combination of deep breathing and relaxing is similar to what women in labor go through and it is also helpful for panic attacks.
The next thing to do is to have as many happy thoughts as possible. Try and think of any thing in life that makes you happy. This is called going to your happy place.
Walking. If possible leave whatever you are doing especially if it is a stressful situation and go out doors for a walk. This way your body is moving and you will also be able to breathe some fresh air. While walking, talk to people, even strangers, anything to distract yourself from your present situation.
Remind oneself. When an attack happens, try and tell yourself that it is a short term experience and that it will pass by soon. It is true that while it is happening it can be a frightening experience but it is not a dangerous condition. The object of all the above exercises is to distract oneself from the panic attack.
Once you have mastered these you will never get affected by these little attacks.
Now, find out how to stop panic attacks for good. There are many resources out there, but you should look into natural ways before taking prescription medications. Learning how to get rid of panic attacks should be your only priority, nobody should live their life with this illness.
