https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-help-someone-who-is-having-a-panic-attack
“A panic attack is a sudden, intense episode of overwhelming fear and anxiety. There are several ways to help a person who is having a panic attack. These include using grounding techniques and helping them get their breathing under control.”
I had too many panic attacks to count last year. It was horrific! Thought I was dying, really. It’s very tough on your family too. It’s a severe traumatic event for everyone close to you.
Now it’s clear to me too, I’m not alone, either. Family, friends & colleagues have been going through all sorts major health stuff the last couple of years.
I’m feeling great now, thanks to a loving and kind wife, and great friends & colleagues who have stayed with us through all of it.
We see 2022 with great hope and opportunities to move forward after a tough couple of years. It will take much love and kindness, though, just like always.
Here’s a couple of quick thoughts about panic attacks from my own experiences this past year.
Remaining calm
It’s tall order! It takes a calm person in your life to help you during a serious panic attack. I don’t know where my wife gets her calmness, even in the hardest times of crisis. But she saved my life more than once over these many months.
Making conversation and positive affirmations
After all the trash is emptied, screaming ‘n yelling, kicking ‘n raging stops, warm hugsme, and saying kind & loving things help me calm down the worst of it.
Suggesting grounding techniques
Once the soft music can be heard, staying calm is easier. I like to heald down to the coast trail, listen to the waves & breathe, just breathe. Mindfulness meditative practices really work. Learn more about that here.
Providing ongoing help
A great health care team helps me on an ongoing basis. Without the best preventative medical care, I’d be toast by now.
How to help someone to breathe
Best advice of all is to learn how to breathe, and keep breathing. Panic attacks take all the oxygen from your body. Drink tons of water too. Call 911 in case things get out of control. Don’t take risks! Don’t assume anything. Call friends & neighbors for help too.
Check out the Mental Health 1st Aid link to learn more…
