subject: Coping with Panic Attacks [print this page] Panic attacks are the worst level of anxiety a person can experience. If your anxiety reaches this point, you can no longer think and act and keep focus. You will become unproductive and blocked. You need immediate help. One of the main ways of coping with panic attacks includes decreasing your stress levels. A major cause of it is stress. Normally, stress is not grave enough to cause major life disruptions but in certain cases, some people are predisposed to anxiety attacks because of their genetic origins and this predisposition becomes triggered by the immediate heightened stress levels they are experiencing.
In coping with panic attacks, specific therapy and medications are available. These two are the main solutions to managing it. You need long-term therapy and medication since this is not something you can cure in a short time span. You, of course, have to take an active role during the course of your intervention because they are a subjective phenomenon. Therapy may include counseling, psychotherapy and group therapy, depending on what works for you best and what your doctor think will be best for you.
Another coping with panic attacks tip would be to avoid over-thinking things. To over-think certain situations, be it past or upcoming, would only increase your anxiety. Your mind builds up a lot of unnecessary thoughts that it gets carried away, and this triggers it, especially if majority of your thoughts are centered on the negative aspects. Don't worry about things you don't need to worry about at the moment. Also, don't dwell on the past.
In coping with panic attacks when they start to appear, breath deeply and bring to a halt whatever it is you may be doing. This will help you compose yourself. Recognize your feelings and allow them to run their course. Talk and express yourself. Talking about what you are going through emotionally relieves you of your burden. You may even find that you are not the only one with such a dilemma. You may also write down your feelings as this may be a form of therapy. In a way, this is the same as expressing yourself only to a piece of paper. Just like Peter Pan, who was able to fly because he had happy thoughts, think happy thoughts! This way, you can redirect your attention into things that will not make you panic. Speaking of diversion, find other things to occupy your mind with. Go swimming or go dancing, watch a movie, do anything that can take your mind off the dark side. You can always teach your mind to focus its attention on thoughts that can make you more productive in the society you live in. Find relaxation techniques that work for you. Close your eyes and take a moment to relax not just your body but your mind as well. Be not only physically relaxed but also emotionally and mentally rejuvenated. Practice controlling your thoughts and you're sure to keep panic attacks at bay.
