Panic attacks are referred to as severe disorders. The human condition is characterized by sudden attacks of unreasonable fear and helplessness. They cause serious physical and emotional reactions, such as strong heartbeat, trembling, dizziness, rapid breathing and a feeling of threat to life. Such pathology limits a person’s daily activities and also negatively affects their quality of life.
It is important to contact a doctor at the first signs of the disease for a comprehensive examination, diagnosis and prescription of effective treatment. The specialist will help the patient to cope with symptoms, develop an anxiety management strategy, which will prevent possible complications.
Symptoms
Panic disorder is characterized by 3 groups of symptoms:
- Emotional. This is an acute feeling of anxiety or fear, often it occurs in certain places, individual for each person. For example, in an open space – or, conversely, in the subway, apartment, elevator, etc.
- Psychosomatic. These are somatic symptoms, the cause of which is a mental state: figuratively speaking, the brain “goes wild” and begins to give the body inadequate commands. The most common symptoms are cardiovascular symptoms, dizziness, shortness of breath or even choking, feeling of a lump in the throat, nausea, sweating, feeling of heat or chills in different parts of the body.
- Cognitive, i.e., related to the ability to perceive and process information. These symptoms primarily include perceptual errors, such as excessive fixation on bodily manifestations, belief in the danger of a seizure, thoughts of imminent death or loss of control.
Medication treatment
Therapy for panic attacks is prescribed when the attacks are recurrent. It includes the following groups of medications:
- Drugs from the group of antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or tricyclic antidepressants. They help to reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks and remove the fear of recurrence.
- Means from the group of anxiolytics (benzodiazepines). They are used to relieve acute panic attacks, and are also suitable for short-term treatment.
- Beta-blockers are prescribed to reduce the physiological manifestations of the attack, such as increased heart rate and body tremors.
- Correction of panic attacks should have an individualized approach and take into account the peculiarities of each patient. A comprehensive program, including medication correction and psychotherapy, often gives the best results in the therapy of this condition.
Psychotherapeutic treatment of panic attacks
Psychotherapy necessarily includes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). It is considered the most effective method of correcting panic attacks. During sessions, the doctor trains the patient to manage his thoughts and behavior during an attack. Psychotherapeutic practitioners develop strategies to help patients cope with this condition and provide relaxation to the body. Psychodynamic therapy is used to explore the underlying psychological causes of the attack and resolve internal conflicts. Spatial psychotherapy or meditation can help patients learn to control their condition and reduce stress levels.
How to cope with panic attacks on your own?
To cope with the problem, if panic attacks occur, it is important to follow these recommendations:
- Deep Breathing. Try to focus on your breathing and take slow, deep breaths in and out. This will help reduce stress levels.
- Muscle relaxation. Try relaxing the muscles in your body, starting from your head to your feet. You can use the progressive muscle relaxation method.
- Positive thoughts. Try shifting your attention to positive thoughts or memories to take your mind off the panicky feelings.
- Use meditation and yoga. These practices can help calm the mind and body, improving your overall well-being, coping with constant stress as well as intense fear.
- Seeking help. If panic attacks become frequent or interfere with daily life, it is worth seeing a psychotherapist or psychiatrist.
Each person is able to find ways to cope with the problem that works best for them. It is important to try different methods, you need to find the combination that will help to remove panic attacks.
How do I calm another person when having a panic attack?
When another person is experiencing an attack, you need to show support and be calm. You can calm him or her down during a panic attack in the following ways:
- Be there for each other. Proximity and support are essential for a person with anxiety syndrome in this situation.
- Be calm. It is important to remain confident in order to communicate your feelings to the sufferer. Speak to the person in a soft, calm voice.
- Support the person’s breathing. Help the person focus on breathing. Prompt him or her to take slow, deep inhalations and exhalations.
- Allow time. Allow the person to work through the attack without rushing him or limiting time. Be patient.
- Give a massage. Gently rub his back or shoulders to help relax the muscles.
- Conduct relaxation exercises. You can offer to do simple physical muscle relaxation exercises together.
- Talk about feelings. Ask the person to describe their feelings during the panic, this will help them to recognize and control their emotions.
If panic attacks become frequent or interfere with his or her daily life, it is important to advise him or her to see a doctor for professional help. Do not hesitate to support your loved one on the road to recovery.
Conclusion
Panic attacks are a complex and distressing condition that requires an attentive approach and comprehensive treatment. Although the attacks may seem unpredictable and frightening, it is possible to learn to cope with them if you seek help in a timely manner and apply effective methods of correction. This includes both medication and psychotherapeutic approaches, especially cognitive behavioral therapy, which has proven to be highly effective in working with panic disorder.
It is also important to remember that in addition to professional help, there are simple self-help techniques such as deep breathing, relaxation, and positive thoughts that can significantly reduce the intensity of symptoms during moments of an attack.
It is important for loved ones experiencing panic attacks to remain close, calm and supportive to help manage the emotional strain of an attack.
Panic disorder is not a judgment. With the right treatment, support, and personal work, you can learn to control this condition and get back to living a fulfilling life. Don’t be afraid to seek help and find the methods that are right for you.
